The FBI is actively investigating Aurora Phelps, a 43-year-old woman now facing serious charges after a disturbing pattern of alleged fraudulent activities surfaced following her indictment in Nevada. Phelps, who is also known by several aliases, was taken into custody in September 2023 in Mexico, with accusations aligning her to at least two deaths and one disappearance tied to multiple cases of romance scams.
- FBI seeks additional victims of Aurora Phelps
- Phelps indicted for romance scam and theft
- Alleged drugging leads to two deaths
- Phelps met victims on dating apps
- Charges include fraud, kidnapping, and identity theft
- Faces life imprisonment if convicted
In October 2023, authorities disclosed detailed information about Phelps’s alleged crimes, stating that she targeted vulnerable older men she met through dating apps or in person. The modus operandi involved gaining their trust before drugging them, allowing her to access their personal and financial information. One elderly victim, who dated Phelps in July 2021, found himself incapacitated after she tampered with his food. He was left on the brink of unconsciousness for days, during which Phelps allegedly stole more than $3 million worth of Apple stocks, although she was unable to withdraw the cash from his accounts.
The pattern of manipulation continues with another victim, whom she met in 2022. After gaining his trust, she reportedly drugged him during a dinner date and took him to Mexico City, where he later died in a hotel room. Phelps allegedly exploited his financial information to pay for her expenses, stealing thousands from him and engaging in unauthorized transactions, including wire transfers to her own accounts.
Witnesses and investigators describe the unfolding events as a “romance scam on steroids.” FBI Special Agent Spencer Evans has expressed concern over the alarming nature of the crimes and stressed the need for other potential victims to come forward. “We are actively seeking anyone who might have encountered Phelps and suffered similar experiences,” Evans said during a press briefing.
Legal proceedings have ramped up in light of these allegations. The indictment reveals that Phelps is being charged with serious offenses, such as wire fraud, identity theft, and kidnapping, which carry heavy penalties, including a potential life sentence. The FBI is mandated to identify all victims involved in these federal crimes but promises confidentiality to those who step forward.
While the legal ramifications of Phelps’s actions are still unfolding, the families of the victims are left grappling with the emotional aftermath. Many express disbelief and anger at how someone could manipulate and exploit their loved ones in such a grave manner. As investigations continue, the community remains on high alert for potential victims of Phelps’s deceptive schemes.
Federal authorities are diligently working to unravel the extent of Phelps’s alleged operations and have appealed to anyone who might have interacted with her, particularly on dating platforms, to contact them. The future of Phelps remains uncertain as she awaits extradition to the United States, where she will face multiple charges that could lead to a lengthy prison sentence if convicted.
The unfolding narrative surrounding Aurora Phelps serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities individuals may face in the realm of online dating. The FBI’s ongoing search for victims reflects a broader understanding of the complexities and dangers associated with romance scams, urging vigilance and caution for those seeking connection in the digital age. As this case develops, it highlights the urgent need for support and resources for victims of similar crimes.
