Maria Abi-Habib, an investigative correspondent for The New York Times based in Mexico City, discusses the alarming rise of a timeshare scam that has targeted elderly Americans, resulting in devastating financial losses. She shares a poignant family story, revealing the emotional and monetary turmoil they endured. The chilling connection between the Jalisco New Generation Cartel and these scams is unveiled, showing how criminal organizations exploit vulnerable individuals. Abi-Habib emphasizes the urgent need for justice and awareness to prevent further victimization.
Elderly Americans are targeted by Jalisco New Generation cartel in timeshare scams, leading to devastating financial losses.
Victims face emotional turmoil and struggle with the aftermath of sophisticated timeshare scams, highlighting the need for awareness and justice.
Deep dives
James Falls Victim to a Timeshare Scam
James, a retired state trooper, falls victim to a timeshare scam orchestrated by a Mexican businessman and worry-free vacations company. Initially offered $20,000 for his timeshare, James sends nearly $900,000 to Mexico based on promises of reimbursement for fees. Despite suspicions, reassurances from the scammers, and documents showing reimbursements, James finds himself financially devastated.
Involvement of Mexican Drug Cartels in Scam
The Jalisco new generation cartel's involvement in timeshare scams targeting elderly Americans is uncovered. The cartel took over call centers handling timeshare scams, directing payments to Mexico. Despite links to murders of employees, the call centers remain elusive, with authorities hesitant to intervene due to the cartel's influence and the tourism industry's reputation concerns.
Challenges and Impact on Victims
Victims like James struggle with shame, financial loss, and strained relationships as they come to terms with falling for the sophisticated scam. With limited prospects for restitution or closure, victims are left to grapple with the emotional and financial aftermath. James seeks to raise awareness to prevent others from facing similar scams and asserts his determination to pursue justice.
Warning: this episode contains descriptions of violence.
A massive scam targeting older Americans who own timeshare properties has resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars sent to Mexico.
Maria Abi-Habib, an investigative correspondent for The Times, tells the story of a victim who lost everything, and of the criminal group making the scam calls — Jalisco New Generation, one of Mexico’s most violent cartels.
Guest: Maria Abi-Habib, an investigative correspondent for The New York Times based in Mexico City.
For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.
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