A man who deceived women on dating platforms by posing as an intelligence agent, financier, and television producer has been jailed after carrying out a £50,000 romance scam.
Rodney Roberts, 40, was sentenced to five years and one month in prison at Cardiff Crown Court after defrauding three women he met online over a three-year period. Prosecutors said Roberts used the alias “Paul Smith” while manipulating victims through dating sites and social media.
According to the court, Roberts first contacted a victim in February 2021. He initially claimed to be from California working as a lawyer and financier in the United Kingdom. He later changed his story, saying the job was a cover and that he was actually working as an intelligence agent.
Roberts told the woman that because of his supposed secret work he did not have direct access to his finances. Using that excuse, he persuaded her to loan him money. Prosecutors said he also convinced the victim to invest in a fake investment scheme, even encouraging her to sell her home to increase her investment. Without her knowledge, he also opened a cryptocurrency account in her name.
Police said Roberts began another online relationship in October 2022. In that case, he used similar tactics to persuade the woman to give him money for a supposed investment opportunity. He allegedly sent fake screenshots showing profits and repeatedly made excuses when she asked for her money back.
Roberts targeted a third victim in March 2024 after meeting her online. This time he claimed to be an American television producer working for the BBC. Investigators said he again convinced the woman to lend him money and invest in a fabricated opportunity.
However, the third victim became suspicious after Roberts failed to return the money. She searched his name online and discovered past news reports detailing earlier fraud cases involving Roberts and the alias Paul Smith. She then contacted South Wales Police.
Authorities launched an investigation that ultimately led to Roberts’ arrest and conviction.
Detective Constable Amanda Davies of the Tarian Regional Crime Unit said romance fraud continues to be a growing and harmful crime.
“Offenders deliberately exploit trust and vulnerability,” she said. “Victims often suffer not only financial losses but also emotional distress and embarrassment, which can prevent them from reporting the crime.”
Police are urging people using dating platforms to remain cautious. Warning signs of romance fraud can include requests for money, reluctance to meet in person or via video calls, and pressure to keep a relationship secret.
Officials also warn about “love bombing,” where a new partner overwhelms someone with excessive attention or affection early in the relationship as a way to build trust before asking for money.
