Indian Student Visa Holder Charged in Rhode Island Senior Scam Ring

A 25-year-old Indian national on a student visa has been arrested for his alleged role in a sophisticated fraud scheme targeting elderly residents. Samyag Uday Doshi was taken into custody in Rhode Island on November 17. He was reportedly caught while attempting to collect cash from a senior citizen victim.

Indian student visa

According to the Boston Globe, Doshi presented himself as a student at Massachusetts University. Authorities believe he acted as a courier in a scam that convinced seniors they needed to pay federal agents to avoid fictitious investigations.

Details of the Elderly Fraud Operation Unveiled

The specific victim in this case was defrauded of $54,000 in cash over several weeks. The scammers’ total attempts against this individual exceeded $385,000. This included efforts to have the victim purchase gold bars.

Police became involved after a gold store owner grew suspicious. The owner reported that an elderly man was trying to buy over $200,000 in gold bars. This prompted a police investigation that led them to Doshi.

Investigators managed the final transaction on the victim’s behalf. They created a fake check for the scammer. They then set up a sting operation for the cash pickup.

Broader Implications for Visa Integrity and Elder Safety

This case highlights ongoing concerns about fraud networks exploiting international students. Doshi told officials he was merely a student collecting money for the first time. However, evidence on his phone suggested otherwise.

Police found a photo of him unboxing a gold bar. He later admitted to conducting several prior money pickups. He was set to receive $500 for the transaction that led to his arrest.

Officials suspect Doshi was a middleman, not the scheme’s mastermind. He indicated he reported to someone he believed was in India. A federal magistrate has ordered him detained without bail, citing a flight risk.

The arrest of this Indian student visa holder underscores a disturbing trend of complex fraud. It signals a continued crackdown on transnational scams exploiting the elderly. The federal case against Doshi remains active and ongoing.

A quick knowledge drop for you:

What was Samyag Doshi’s role in the scam?

Authorities allege Doshi acted as a cash courier. He was the person sent to collect money directly from the scammed elderly victim. He was not believed to be the primary organizer of the fraud ring.

How did the scam target the elderly victim?

The victim received a message about a fake transaction. When he called the provided number, a scammer posed as a federal officer. The fake agent claimed the victim was under investigation and could avoid trouble by paying money.

What is Doshi’s current legal status?

A federal magistrate judge has ordered him detained without bail. The judge cited strong evidence and the risk he might flee. His student visa status is now under severe scrutiny due to the criminal charges.

How much money was involved in this case?

The victim handed over $54,000 in cash during the scam. The fraudsters’ total attempts, including orders to buy gold bars, amounted to over $385,000. This highlights the significant financial impact of such crimes.

What happens to his student visa now?

Serious criminal charges typically violate the terms of a US student visa. A conviction would almost certainly lead to visa revocation and deportation. The legal process will determine his immigration fate.