(Image Credit: IMAGN) The Kentucky Sentate gavel rests on the wooden sound block in the Kentucky Senate chambers before the first day of Concurrence began at the state Capitol in Frankfort, Ky. March 13, 2025.
Whittier, California – A Whittier man is facing federal charges after allegedly using dating apps to carry out an elaborate romance and investment fraud scheme that authorities say cost victims more than $2 million.
Federal prosecutors announced Tuesday that 39-year-old Christopher Earl Lloyd was arrested on a 14-count indictment accusing him of exploiting online dating platforms—including Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble—to gain the trust of his victims and solicit large sums of money under false pretenses.
Lloyd made his initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Santa Ana, where he was arraigned on 13 counts of wire fraud and one count of engaging in a monetary transaction involving criminally derived property. If convicted, he could face decades in federal prison.
According to the indictment, Lloyd’s scheme spanned from April 2021 to February 2024. During that time, he allegedly used fabricated identities and phony investment opportunities to deceive individuals he met online. Prosecutors say he falsely claimed to be the vice president of a cannabis company called Planet 13 Holdings, an employee of a firm named Landmark Associates, and a seasoned financial manager who had recently closed multiple real estate deals.
These falsehoods helped Lloyd gain the confidence of his victims, who believed they were entering into legitimate relationships with someone financially savvy and trustworthy. Prosecutors say Lloyd convinced his matches to invest thousands of dollars with promises of high returns, regular payouts, and flexible withdrawals.
To bolster the illusion, Lloyd reportedly created fake contracts and investment schedules, outlining fabricated financial plans designed to lure victims into parting with their money. Funds were sent via wire transfers, Zelle, Cash App, and even hand-delivered in cash, prosecutors say.
Instead of investing the money, Lloyd allegedly used it for personal expenses, including a $40,000 payment to a Lexus dealership in Mission Viejo. Authorities say there is no evidence any of the funds were ever used for actual investments or returned to the victims.
The indictment, returned by a federal grand jury earlier this month, paints a picture of a calculated fraud operation that weaponized emotional connection and financial aspiration. While each charge of wire fraud carries a potential 20-year sentence, the monetary transaction count could add another 10 years if Lloyd is convicted.
The FBI is leading the investigation into the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Fu of the Orange County office is prosecuting. Lloyd is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
