Federal immigration authorities say three Chinese nationals illegally in the United States have been arrested in separate schemes targeting elderly residents across New York State for tens of thousands of dollars.
In the most recent case, Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers took Jian Chen into custody on July 8 following his local arrest for felony grand larceny. Investigators say Chen, who is unlawfully present in the U.S., defrauded a retired 63-year-old woman out of $42,000 through false promises and misrepresentation. According to authorities, he also attempted to collect another $98,000 from the same victim by arranging a second meeting in Potsdam. Homeland Security Investigations agents in Massena issued a criminal warrant and requested ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations support to apprehend Chen.
A separate arrest on May 29 involved Rihui Yan, who is also in the U.S. unlawfully. ICE officers detained Yan after an investigation revealed he attempted to scam an elderly couple out of $20,000. Authorities said Yan is additionally wanted in Wyoming County for a similar alleged fraud.
Both men are currently held without bond pending removal proceedings.
These arrests follow a similar case from October 2024, when ICE Buffalo officers arrested Hui Chen after a tip from the Ticonderoga Police Department. That investigation led to charges of grand larceny and conspiracy in an attempt to steal about $40,000 from another older New Yorker. Hui Chen remains in custody and is awaiting immigration court proceedings.
ICE officials said these cases highlight ongoing efforts to target noncitizens engaged in financial crimes against vulnerable residents.
“This investigation demonstrates our commitment to arresting and removing those who exploit our communities,” said Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge for HSI Buffalo. “We will not allow individuals illegally in the country to prey on elderly New Yorkers for personal gain.”
Joseph Freden, Deputy Field Office Director for ICE ERO Buffalo, added that officers remain focused on removing criminal aliens who undermine public safety and violate U.S. laws.
