2 Indian students sentenced to prison in US for multi-million dollar fraud targeting elderly Americans
In a disturbing case that exposes the risks elderly Americans face online, two Indian students studying in the U.S. landed in prison after defrauding senior citizens of millions. Their scheme involved impersonating government agents, scaring older adults, and tricking them into handing over cash and gold.
The U.S. Department of Justice described the crime as part of a broader international fraud network. These fraudsters misused student visas, operated across state lines, and preyed on fear to achieve their goals.
Who Are the Accused?
Kishan Rajeshkumar Patel, a 20-year-old Indian student, received a 63-month (over 5 years) sentence for his involvement in the crime. He conspired to launder money stolen through a complex phone scam. The U.S. authorities charged him under federal laws, and the court found substantial evidence linking him to several in-person pickups of victim funds.
Moinuddin Mohammed, another Indian national, received a separate sentence earlier this year. His case involved similar crimes and led to an 8-year prison term. He defrauded elderly victims of nearly $6 million, and his operation followed a comparable pattern of deceit.
How the Scam Worked
The scammers didn’t rely on sophisticated tech. Instead, they used emotional manipulation. They called elderly Americans, posing as government officials from agencies like the IRS or FBI. Then, they threatened the victims with legal action, arrest, or frozen bank accounts. This tactic pressured them to act out of fear rather than reason.
Next, the callers demanded payments to “resolve” the issues. Victims were instructed to withdraw large sums, purchase gold, or hand over physical cash. Often, someone would arrive at their doorstep to collect the funds.
Kishan Patel acted as one of these couriers. In fact, authorities arrested him on August 24, 2024, in Granite Shoals, Texas, while he was collecting $130,000 in cash from a targeted victim.
A Network of Co-Conspirators
Dhruv Rajeshbhai Mangukiya, another Indian student, admitted to participating in the scam. He entered a guilty plea just days ago and now awaits sentencing. Investigators linked him to the same fraud operation involving Patel.
Importantly, U.S. officials believe these students didn’t operate alone. They likely received instructions from ringleaders based abroad. Many such frauds begin overseas, but they rely on people within the U.S.—often on visas—to do the physical legwork like picking up money.
The Department of Justice is continuing its investigation, working with federal agencies and international partners to identify and dismantle the entire network.
Indian Student Community Reacts with Shock
News of the arrests sparked concern across the Indian student community in the United States. Most Indian students travel to America with honest intentions—to study, work hard, and build careers. However, this case highlights how a few individuals can tarnish the reputation of the broader community.
Indian embassies and student organizations have started issuing warnings. They encourage students to avoid shady job offers and easy-money scams. They also remind students that participating in criminal activities—no matter how small—can lead to prison, deportation, and a permanent bar from re-entry into the U.S.
Elderly Americans: Easy Targets for Scammers
Sadly, older adults often fall victim to scams. They may lack familiarity with phishing tactics or feel pressured by fake officials. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), senior citizens in the U.S. lost more than $3 billion to scams in 2023.
These cases show why protecting this vulnerable population matters more than ever. Scammers use their limited tech knowledge and fear of authority to manipulate them.
To counter this, federal authorities are launching awareness campaigns. They advise families to discuss scam prevention with older relatives and to:
- Verify the caller’s identity before acting.
- Avoid sharing sensitive information over the phone.
- Never send cash, gold, or gift cards in response to threats.
Sentencing Reflects Seriousness of the Crime
U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza emphasized the importance of holding the fraudsters accountable. He said,
“These defendants manipulated the fears of elderly victims to steal from them. The sentence sends a strong message: this kind of exploitation will not go unpunished.”
By sentencing Patel and Mohammed to years in prison, the U.S. justice system has taken a firm stand. Furthermore, these convictions may help deter other potential scammers from using similar tactics.
