The Daily How One Family Lost $900,000 in a Timeshare Scam
18 snips
Apr 12, 2024 
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.
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James and Nikki's Timeshare
- James, a retired state trooper, and Nikki, a former school nurse, own a timeshare in Lake Tahoe.
- Wanting to sell it, they receive a call from 'Worry-Free Vacations' about a Mexican businessman interested in buying it.
The Initial Offer
- Worry-Free Vacations offered James $20,000 for his timeshare, which he accepted.
- After verifying the buyer's identity online, he began wiring money for supposed fees.
Escalating Fees
- After the initial payments, James was asked to pay additional fees repeatedly.
- Despite Nikki's suspicion, James, trusting the promised reimbursements, continued paying.