FBI Investigates Deadly Romance Scheme Targeting Elderly Men

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Authorities arrested a woman believed to have lured and drugged older men through online dating apps, potentially leading to their deaths. Aurora Phelps, 43, now in custody in Mexico, faces 21 charges including wire fraud, identity theft, and one count of kidnapping resulting in death, according to the FBI.

Phelps’s alleged romantic schemes reportedly spanned from late 2021 into 2022, targeting at least four men who were seeking companionship. The FBI revealed on Friday that three of these men have died following encounters with Phelps.

“This is a romance scam on steroids,” said Spencer Evans, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Las Vegas division. One victim, who remained in a coma after receiving sedatives, regained consciousness only to learn of his dire circumstances.

According to court documents, Phelps is accused of drugging a man with prescription medications, incapacitating him long enough to steal his financial information and even sell his Apple stock worth approximately $3.3 million.

In one chilling incident, Phelps allegedly pushed a sedated victim across the U.S.-Mexico border in a wheelchair, ultimately leading to the man’s death in a Mexico City hotel room. “It’s folks that are out looking for love that ran into something far more sinister,” Evans stated.

Phelps reportedly utilized popular dating platforms like Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble to meet her targets. These men, largely described as lonely and vulnerable, often went on several dates with her before unknowingly falling prey to her malicious tactics.

The FBI has placed particular focus on the potential for additional victims, both in the United States and Mexico. “We believe Phelps preyed upon individuals over a period of more than three years,” Evans said. Authorities urge those who suspect they or someone they know has fallen victim to Phelps to reach out for assistance.

Phelps, who holds dual citizenship in Mexico and the U.S., had been under FBI scrutiny for an extended period. Details regarding her prior criminal record have not been disclosed.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada has underscored the dangers involved in romance scams. Their warning directed particularly at individuals over the age of 60, noting that these scams not only inflict financial hardship but also have deep emotional impacts on victims.

To assist in identifying other potential victims, the FBI has set up a specialized website and can be contacted through 1-800-CALL-FBI. The agency is coordinating with Mexico’s authorities to secure Phelps’s extradition to the United States, where she faces severe penalties if convicted.

If found guilty of all charges, Phelps could serve a life sentence in prison, according to Sue Fahami, the acting U.S. attorney for the District of Nevada.

In light of this case, the FBI has re-emphasized the need for individuals to be cautious when engaging with online connections, particularly as scammers often appear caring and genuine.