Associated Incidents
A 73-year-old California woman was scammed into believing she was in communication with a famous MSNBC host, with the scammer leading her to be convinced she was in a romantic relationship with him only to nearly fall victim to a kidnapping scheme.
Patricia Taylor, a big fan of MSNBC's Ari Melber, was duped by a fake profile that initially asked for money to treat a sick dog, AZ Family reported.
When Taylor grew increasingly suspicious, the scammer used AI technology to mimic Melber's voice, further convincing Taylor to send money and travel across the country to meet him.
After four months, the scammer convinced Taylor that he was in love with her. Taylor received a $30 ring from the scammer, who convinced her they would marry soon and prompting her to send more money.
In a frightening turn of events, Taylor attempted to meet the scammer in New York City, but a family member intercepted her during a layover, preventing a potential abduction.
The family is now grappling with the emotional and financial consequences of the scam. They fear Taylor may try to meet the scammer again. "We just want our mom back," Joey Taylor, the woman's son, said.