In short
- Van Sickle used fake contracts and false statements to conceal his crimes and obstruct federal investigations.
- He received over 30 money transfers between 2022 and 2024 and has not repaid any money to date.
What happened
Troy Clinton Van Sickle admitted in federal court to orchestrating a romance fraud scheme targeting two elderly women, stealing more than $1.8 million through false promises and fabricated business deals. He used the victims' money for personal expenses, including luxury cars and gambling, and never intended to repay them.
Van Sickle also obstructed federal law enforcement by submitting false financial documents to his probation officer and manipulating one victim to delete evidence and sign fraudulent statements. He was on federal supervision for a prior fraud conviction and faces sentencing in January 2027.
Between 2022 and 2024, Van Sickle received more than 30 money transfers from the women totaling more than $1.8 million. He has not repaid any money to date.
In numbers
- $1.8 million Total stolen from two elderly women
- $150,000 Victim's wire transfer for fake contract
- $734,000 Payment on 2022 Ferrari SF90 Stradale
Named in this item
What compliance teams should check
- Review client accounts for patterns of more than 30 money transfers between 2022 and 2024 linked to Troy Clinton Van Sickle.
- Scrutinize luxury car purchases and gambling transactions associated with fake miniature replica car companies and Lotus Cars contracts.
- Verify promissory notes and financial packets submitted under penalty of perjury for omissions of luxury assets and gambling winnings.
Why it matters
This case highlights the risks of romance fraud targeting vulnerable elderly clients, with sophisticated use of fake contracts, luxury purchases, and false financial disclosures to evade detection. Compliance officers must be alert to patterns of repeated money transfers, fabricated business deals, and attempts to conceal assets or income. The involvement of federal supervision and obstruction of law enforcement underscores the need for thorough due diligence and monitoring of high-risk individuals, especially those with prior fraud convictions.
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