by Federal immigration agents have arrested multiple Chinese nationals living in the U.S. illegally for allegedly targeting elderly New Yorkers in financial scams. The arrests are part of ongoing efforts by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to crack down on fraud and protect vulnerable populations.
The suspects are accused of operating schemes in various parts of New York, including Potsdam, Massena, and Buffalo, stealing tens of thousands of dollars from retirees and senior citizens. Authorities say these scams not only hurt individuals but also pose a wider threat to public trust and safety.
Key Details of the Arrests:
- Jian Chen:
- Arrested on July 8 in Potsdam, NY.
- Accused of defrauding a 63-year-old retiree out of $42,000.
- Allegedly tried to obtain an additional $98,000 from the same victim.
- Rihui Yan:
- Arrested in Massena, NY.
- Accused of attempting to steal $20,000 from an elderly couple.
- Also wanted in Wyoming County for a similar fraud case.
- Hui Chen:
- Arrested in Buffalo in October 2023.
- Charged with grand larceny and conspiracy.
- Allegedly tried to defraud an elderly New Yorker of $40,000.
- Arrest followed a tip from the Ticonderoga Police Department.
Statements from Officials:
- Joseph Freden, ICE Deputy Field Office Director, condemned the suspects, stating:
“It takes a real dirtbag to prey on our most vulnerable community members by attempting to swindle them out of their hard-earned savings.” - Erin Keegan, Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo Special Agent in Charge, added:
“We will never stand idly by while bad actors – in this case, illegally present Chinese nationals – target innocent New Yorkers for their own selfish gain.”
Background Context:
- The arrests come amid a reported surge in illegal immigration by Chinese nationals at the southern U.S. border under the Biden administration.
- Efforts have since intensified under the Trump administration to remove non-citizens involved in serious criminal activity, prioritizing what officials call the “worst of the worst.”
ICE has reaffirmed its commitment to removing individuals who pose a threat to community safety and violate U.S. laws.
