Federal Prosecutors Charge Man for Impersonating Football Player in $1.3 Million Fraud Scheme
Portland, Monday, 31 August 2026.
Federal charges against a man impersonating an NFL player highlight growing risks in romance-based investment fraud, which defrauded 26 victims of over $1.3 million.
Federal Charges and Fraud Allegations
Federal prosecutors have formally charged a man with orchestrating a multi-year investment and romance fraud scheme by impersonating a professional athlete. Authorities state the suspect defrauded at least 26 victims out of more than $1.3 million by posing as a wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers [1][2]. The accused, identified as 35-year-old Daejon Labrayae Love, allegedly met victims through dating apps while presenting himself as a wealthy real estate investor and NFL player [1]. This case underscores persistent risks in high-yield investment scams where personal relationships are exploited for financial gain [1][GPT].
The Investment Facade
To sustain the deception, Love reportedly introduced an 18-year-old co-conspirator, Taylor Jamie Chan, who posed as his financial adviser [1]. Prosecutors allege the pair utilized fake investment accounts and staged three-way FaceTime calls displaying fabricated profits to convince victims to transfer funds [1]. In some instances, victims were encouraged to take out personal loans once their initial capital was exhausted, believing they were building a wealthy future [1]. The average loss per victim amounts to approximately 50000 based on the total alleged fraud and victim count [1][2].
Team Response and Timeline
Following the emergence of these allegations, the San Francisco 49ers moved to sever ties with the individual. Reports indicate the team released Love on August 29, 2026, noting he had participated in training camp despite the surrounding controversy [3]. While social media reports initially labeled him a star WR, detailed charges suggest he created a fake roster spot and NFL journey without ever playing one regular-season NFL snap [1][3]. This distinction highlights the depth of the impersonation, as he maintained access to team facilities during training camp [3].
Arrest and Regulatory Context
Love and Chan were arrested at Boise Airport on August 24, 2026, while authorities say Love was in Idaho looking to meet new victims [1]. Both have been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud, though these charges remain allegations until proven in court [1]. The scheme included digital evidence such as custom 49ers jersey cakes and Instagram story highlights titled Free Agency and Super Bowl to validate the false narrative [1][4]. Investors are reminded to verify credentials independently, as regulatory bodies frequently warn against unverified private asset opportunities [1][GPT].