AITKIN, Minn. — Court documents allege Aron Lee Melton and Kristi Ann Fox carried out a scheme involving counterfeit precious metals, selling fake gold, silver, and platinum bars as authentic.
According to investigators, the pair marketed the metals on Facebook Marketplace using the name “Collect Cadillac.” Authorities say the alleged victim suffered losses totaling about $40,779.
The victim reportedly purchased four platinum bars from Melton and Fox, two of which were later determined to be counterfeit. After discovering the fake platinum, the victim had previously purchased gold bars tested, which were allegedly found to be a mix of genuine and counterfeit items.
Investigators collected a bag containing gold, platinum, and silver bars from the victim for further testing. Charging documents state that none of the tested bars proved to be authentic, though officials did not specify how many items were examined.
Authorities allege the victim engaged in multiple high-value transactions with Melton and Fox between August and December of 2025.
During questioning, Fox allegedly told investigators that Melton realized some of the gold he was selling was counterfeit but continued selling the metals while claiming they were genuine.
The indictment does not specify where the bars originated, other than statements made to the victim that they came from mint and coin shop purchases and from the estate of Fox’s father.
Melton faces charges including aiding and abetting theft by swindle, counterfeiting-related offenses, and two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He is scheduled to make his first court appearance on February 18.
Fox is charged with aiding and abetting theft by swindle and a counterfeiting-related offense. She is scheduled to appear in court on March 3 for an omnibus hearing.
