Federal authorities have arrested 15 individuals accused of orchestrating a $30 million telemarketing fraud scheme that targeted elderly Americans who owned timeshares. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the Eastern District of California, members of this criminal organization allegedly contacted victims through phone calls and emails, using false identities posing as attorneys and government officials.
Many victims, who either currently owned or had previously owned timeshares, were told they were entitled to receive money from legal settlements related to their timeshares. However, these settlements never existed. FBI Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel commented on the case, saying, “We exposed a complex fraud led by gangs that drained the life savings of elderly victims. They used real government employee names, real attorney bar association numbers, and seemingly authentic seals.”
Victims were persuaded to pay supposed legal fees to obtain these nonexistent settlements. The alleged criminals laundered the stolen money through shell companies and financial accounts before transferring the funds to gang-controlled banks across the U.S., Latin America, and other regions.
IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Linda Nguyen warned the public about the deceptive tactics used in this scam: “The government will not ask you for fees to obtain legitimate money owed to you.”
As of Tuesday, authorities have identified more than 372 victims nationwide who collectively lost over $30 million. U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of California, Eric Grant, acknowledged that recovery efforts remain challenging.
The suspects are believed to be part of a transnational gang previously known for drug trafficking but who have shifted their focus to fraud schemes that yield easier profits. A Fresno-based grand jury has indicted more than 20 individuals on charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering.
Operation Silver Shores, the investigation that led to these arrests, took place across California, Texas, and Florida. Among those arrested were four suspects from Fresno and Bakersfield.
FBI Special Agent Patel urged Americans to exercise caution: “Verify unfamiliar contacts before sharing financial information or sending money.”
If you receive unsolicited calls or emails promising money related to timeshares or legal settlements, be vigilant. Report suspicious activity to the authorities to help prevent others from falling victim to similar scams.
https://dailycaller.com/2025/10/23/fbi-arrests-15-elderly-timeshare-fraud-scheme/