SPANISH FORT, Ala. (WKRG) – A retired educator in her late 70s has lost more than $400,000 in an elaborate scam, where she believed she was assisting the U.S. government in a confidential operation.
Spanish Fort Police Chief John Barber confirmed that 23-year-old Xiahezhati Xiaokelaiti was arrested Friday for aggravated theft by deception, accused of playing a key role in the scheme.
“This is someone whose entire life savings were taken from her by criminals driven by greed,” Barber said.
The woman was first contacted via text message, allegedly from someone claiming to be with the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The message stated she owed a significant amount of money due to international transactions.
Over three weeks, scammers posing as U.S. Marshals convinced the victim to meet multiple times at local businesses. During these exchanges, she handed over more than $400,000 in cash and gold bars, believing she was aiding an official investigation.
Fortunately, after growing suspicious, the woman approached police. Authorities launched a sting operation and arrested Xiaokelaiti as he attempted to collect another payment.
Police say Xiaokelaiti, a Chinese national, was in the U.S. on a student visa that had been revoked. He is now in the country illegally and being held with an ICE detainer and a $10,000 bond.
“This isn’t just one person acting alone,” Barber warned. “We believe this is part of a well-organized international crime ring.”
The FBI has taken over the investigation, looking into broader connections and additional suspects.
Barber urged the public to remain vigilant. “Always contact your local police if you receive suspicious messages, especially those involving money or threats,” he said. “These criminals are good at what they do, and we need more people to come forward.”
