Quebec man arrested for allegedly defrauding American seniors

A composite image of suspect Jia Hua Liu along with currency seized by authorities. (Courtesy: Facebook/Charlestown Police Department)

By Jessica Barile

Posted July 9, 2025 6:39 pm.

The Charlestown Police Department says it arrested a Quebec man for allegedly defrauding several seniors of more than $400,000 in a “widespread” scam across the United States.

Police say Jia Hua Liu, 36, was arrested on July 2 at the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, while he was preparing to catch a flight. Liu entered the United States in April.

Police say a large amount of cash was found after searches conducted on his vehicle and luggage.

The incident that sparked the investigation involved an Indiana resident who was tricked into withdrawing $27,000 from his retirement account. The suspect allegedly took his money and left.

The investigation is ongoing, with over 20 search warrants and five subpoenas served so far.

Liu is facing multiple felony charges including theft, fraud, conspiracy and money laundering.

The victims involved in the scam are believed to be located in Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Illinois, Georgia, Alabama and Tennessee.

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