A Southern California man is facing federal charges after allegedly defrauding victims of more than $2 million by posing as a wealthy investor on popular dating platforms, federal prosecutors announced.
Christopher Earl Lloyd, 39, of Whittier, was indicted on 14 federal counts after authorities say he used dating apps like Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble to lure victims into fraudulent investment schemes over a nearly three-year period. The indictment was returned by a federal grand jury on July 2, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California.
Romance Turned Fraud
From April 2021 to February 2024, Lloyd allegedly cultivated romantic relationships with victims he met through dating platforms, falsely presenting himself as financially successful and experienced in investment strategies.
“Lloyd misled his victims into believing he was a savvy investor,” prosecutors said. “He promised them opportunities that would yield strong returns and assured them they could withdraw their funds at any time.”
But instead of investing their money, authorities allege Lloyd used it for personal expenses.
Luxury Purchases and Fabricated Credentials
In one instance cited by prosecutors, Lloyd allegedly withdrew $40,000 sent by a victim in May 2023 and used it to write a check to a Lexus dealership in Mission Viejo.
To reinforce the illusion, Lloyd falsely claimed he had closed on multiple properties, served as a longtime financial manager, and held executive roles at companies including Planet 13 Holdings and Landmark Associates. Prosecutors emphasized that none of those claims were true.
False Promises, Real Losses
To gain trust, Lloyd allegedly signed fake contracts detailing the “investments” and promised scheduled payouts. Victims reportedly sent funds through wire transfers, Zelle, Cash App, and even cash.
He is now charged with 13 counts of wire fraud and one count of engaging in a monetary transaction involving criminally derived property.
Facing Decades Behind Bars
“If convicted, Lloyd faces up to 20 years in federal prison for each count of wire fraud and 10 years for the monetary transaction offense,” prosecutors said. The FBI is leading the investigation.
Dating apps Bumble and Tinder were among the platforms Lloyd allegedly used to commit the fraud, federal officials added.
The case serves as another high-profile example of romance-based financial scams, which authorities say are increasingly targeting individuals through digital platforms.
