Two Indian nationals on student visas have been sentenced to federal prison in the U.S. for involvement in online fraud schemes targeting elderly Americans, resulting in multi-million dollar losses.
________________________________________
In a troubling development that highlights the dangers of online fraud and exploitation of vulnerable populations, two Indian students studying in the United States have been sentenced to federal prison in separate but similar fraud cases. These scams, which used phishing tactics and impersonation of government officials, resulted in the theft of millions of dollars from elderly American citizens.
________________________________________
Case Details: Kishan Rajeshkumar Patel
Kishan Rajeshkumar Patel, 20, entered the U.S. on a student visa and has now been sentenced to 63 months (over five years) in prison for conspiracy to commit money laundering. According to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Patel was part of an online fraud ring that used phishing emails, fear tactics, and impersonation of U.S. government officials to scam senior citizens.
Patel collected cash and gold from victims, keeping a portion for himself while passing the rest to co-conspirators. The scheme reportedly involved at least 25 elderly victims and aimed to defraud them of over $2.6 million.
He was arrested on August 24, 2024, in Granite Shoals, Texas, while attempting to collect what he believed was $130,000 from a victim. He has been in federal custody since August 29, 2024.
"This defendant took advantage of his visa status in our country and participated in an international fraud scheme," said U.S. Attorney Justin Simmons. "He preyed on the fears of vulnerable Americans for personal gain."
________________________________________
Co-Defendant: Dhruv Rajeshbhai Mangukiya
Patel’s co-defendant, Dhruv Rajeshbhai Mangukiya, also an Indian national on a student visa, pleaded guilty on June 16, 2025, and is currently awaiting sentencing. Authorities suggest that he played a role in facilitating the laundering of the fraudulently obtained funds.
________________________________________
