KNOX COUNTY, Tenn. — Lee Kah Poh, a 29-year-old illegal immigrant, was arrested on August 1 following an investigation into a bitcoin scam that defrauded victims of more than $850,000.
The Knox County Sheriff’s Office launched the investigation after receiving reports from two men who said they were scammed by foreign nationals through the Telegram app. According to court documents, Poh contacted the victims promising large returns if they invested in a cryptocurrency company.
The victims reported losses exceeding $850,000. Records reveal that on July 31, Poh requested an additional $300,000 from the victims. Detectives arranged a meeting with Poh at a business on Maynardville Highway, where he was arrested.
Authorities noted that some local individuals also aided in facilitating the scam.
Poh currently has an immigration detainer hold, indicating he is likely in the U.S. illegally. He will remain in custody until turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Poh faces charges including fraud, theft by deception, and conspiracy to commit a financial crime. His bond hearing is scheduled for August 5.
