A 21-year-old Indian student in the United States, Dhruv Rajeshbhai Mangukiya, has been sentenced to 97 months in prison and ordered to pay $2,515,780 in restitution for his role in a large-scale money laundering conspiracy. The case highlights one of the most troubling fraud trends in the US—criminal networks targeting vulnerable elderly citizens through phone scams.
Mangukiya’s co-conspirator, Kishan Rajeshkumar Patel, received a 63-month sentence earlier in June. Both pleaded guilty.
How the Scam Worked
Mangukiya and Patel identified elderly victims and contacted them while impersonating US government officials. They fabricated investigations and falsely claimed victims needed to deposit cash, gold, or valuables to avoid legal action or financial loss.
The operation followed a clear pattern:
- Victims were told they were under investigation.
- They were pressured to make “security” payments.
- A courier—often Patel—was sent to collect the valuables from victims’ homes or public parking lots.
- The criminals made victims believe they were cooperating with authorities.
In one incident, an elderly woman was told her social security number was stolen, multiple accounts were opened in her name, and she needed to pay $30,000 to avoid being implicated in a money laundering scheme.
Evidence and Arrest
Patel’s arrest led investigators to the broader network. His phone contained messages between Patel, Mangukiya, and two unidentified individuals referred to as “Hunter” and “Master,” suspected to be higher-level operatives in the scam.
Mangukiya was arrested in New Jersey on December 5, 2024. A search of his residence revealed:
- A printer used for creating fake IDs
- $73,422.96 in cash
- Communication records detailing the laundering operation
He admitted he was paid 2% of all fraud proceeds and had personally recruited Patel as a courier.
A Wider Warning
Authorities say cases like this are becoming increasingly common, with scammers often exploiting seniors’ trust and fear. The harsh sentencing reflects the US Justice Department’s intensified crackdown on transnational fraud networks exploiting vulnerable populations.
Mangukiya’s case serves as a stark reminder of the growing sophistication of scam operations—and the heavy penalties awaiting those who participate.
