Man Gets 25 Years for Online Dating Hostage Scams Targeting Americans

Romance Scammer Sentenced to 25 Years for Hostage-Taking. The Venezuelan national lured US citizens via online dating and held them at knifepoint. Learn about the case and stay safe online.

A Venezuelan national, Deivy Jose Rodriguez Delgado, also known as “Sebastian,” has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for online dating scams, romance scams in particular, leading to a series of hostage situations targeting American citizens in the Dominican Republic.

Delgado, 30, exploited online dating platforms to bait his victims. Between July 5 and July 30, 2022, he used this tactic to kidnap three separate victims. In each case, Delgado picked up his victim, only to stop shortly after and allow an accomplice to enter the vehicle. The victims were then held at knifepoint, restrained, and threatened while Delgado and his accomplice demanded ransom payments.

Deivy Jose Rodriguez Delgado (Via DOJ)

According to a press release from the US Department of Justice (DOJ), Delgado forced his victims to contact family and friends, pleading for money to secure their release. He directed the ransom payments to online banking accounts, including a CashApp account. The victims were held captive for up to an hour, robbed of their belongings, and released only after Delgado believed the ransom had been paid.

Dominican authorities launched an investigation in August 2022, after receiving reports from multiple victims. They traced a vehicle used in one of the kidnappings back to Delgado, leading to his arrest on September 14, 2022. Two serrated knives, similar to those used in the crimes, were discovered during a search of the vehicle.

****Staying Safe Online****

This case shows the risks of online dating, where seemingly harmless interactions can lead to real-life dangers. When meeting someone from a dating app for the first time, prioritize safety by choosing public places and informing trusted contacts of your plans.

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