Federal authorities have arrested a man accused of impersonating a wealthy San Francisco 49ers player to defraud more than 26 women out of $1.3 million. Daejon Labrayae Love, 35, and his alleged accomplice, Taylor Jamie Chan, 18, were taken into custody in Boise, Idaho, on Monday.
Love and Chan face charges of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud, according to a federal complaint filed in Portland, Oregon. Investigators learned Love was in Idaho to meet new victims, the Department of Justice stated.
The alleged scheme began in February 2022, with Love and Chan creating fictitious investments to defraud women in California, Oregon, Idaho, and Washington. Love reportedly posed as a wealthy 49ers player or a real estate investor, meeting victims through online dating apps and showcasing a lavish lifestyle in person and on social media. Love's Instagram account features photos and videos of him wearing 49ers gear and working out.
Chan allegedly posed as Love's financial advisor, further convincing victims of the legitimacy of the investments. The pair allegedly solicited money from women by promising massive returns on nonexistent investment vehicles. Chan is accused of sending messages to Love, which Love then allegedly forwarded to victims as proof of new investment opportunities.
"Victims sent Love and Chan money due to their belief that their money would be invested in legitimate investment vehicles on the victims’ behalf," according to the FBI. Some victims also allegedly loaned Love large sums of money or were instructed to take out personal loans, with assurances of swift repayment. Authorities stated that Love never returned any money, and no victim reported receiving any investment returns.
Investigators believe there may be additional victims. Love is also accused of using phone applications to create fake bank and investment account statements to show victims. He allegedly blocked communications once victims began questioning him or indicated they had no more money to invest.
Love and Chan are scheduled to appear in court in Idaho on Thursday.