Indian student in US jailed for $2.6 million scam targeting elderly

Texas: A young Indian national, Kishan Rajeshkumar Patel, aged 20, who arrived in the United States on a student visa, has been sentenced to 63 months in federal prison for his role in a large-scale fraud operation targeting elderly Americans. The sentencing follows Patel’s guilty plea to conspiracy to commit money laundering, as announced by the US Department of Justice.

Posing as US officials and using fear to defraud

Patel was involved in a sophisticated phishing scheme that impersonated US government authorities. The scam exploited fear and deception to manipulate elderly victims into surrendering large sums of money and gold.

According to the Department of Justice, the conspirators used online phishing techniques and impersonated officials to intimidate victims. Patel personally collected cash and gold, forwarding a portion to his co-conspirators while keeping a share for himself.

Arrest and scale of the fraud

The fraud scheme came to light when Patel attempted to collect $130,000 in Granite Shoals, Texas, on 24 August 2024, leading to his arrest. Following the incident, Patel has remained in federal custody since 29 August.

Subsequent investigations uncovered that the fraud ring had targeted at least 25 elderly individuals, with an intended loss of $2,694,156.

US prosecutors condemn misuse of visa

US Attorney Justin Simmons condemned Patel’s actions, stating,

“This defendant took advantage of his visa status in our country and participated in an international fraud scheme.”

“Patel defrauded vulnerable American citizens out of millions of dollars by impersonating government officials and preying on his victims’ fears of adverse government action.”

Co-accused awaits sentencing

Patel’s co-defendant, Dhruv Rajeshbhai Mangukiya, also an Indian national, pleaded guilty on 16 June 2025. He is currently awaiting sentencing.