Scams, Money & Murder: INTERVIEW – Pig Butchering with Jacqueline Crenshaw

Podcast: Scams, Money & Murder
Host: Nicole Lapin
Guest: Jacqueline Crenshaw
Release Date: August 28, 2025

Episode Overview

This episode delves into the harrowing experience of Jacqueline Crenshaw, who lost nearly $1 million to a sophisticated "pig butchering" scam—a hybrid of romance and investment fraud. Host Nicole Lapin interviews Jacqueline as she recounts the progression from an online romance to total financial devastation, and, ultimately, transformation into an advocate for fellow scam victims. The conversation offers insight into how these scams operate, the psychological tactics employed by scammers, and the profound financial and emotional consequences for victims.

Key Topics & Discussion Points

1. Introduction to Pig Butchering Scams

[03:23]

Nicole explains that “pig butchering” refers to scammers “fattening up” victims with affection, trust, and investment opportunities before “slaughtering” them by stealing all their money.
The scam Jacqueline endured began on a dating app, combining emotional manipulation and fraudulent investment schemes.

2. Jacqueline’s Story: How the Scam Began

[04:36–07:46]

Urged by friends, Jacqueline joined the dating app BLK in May 2023, meeting a man named "Brandon," who claimed to be a widower with two boys.
The relationship quickly intensified, moving off the dating platform after five to six weeks.
Early red flags: Brandon avoided video calls, made excuses for not meeting in person, and encouraged emotional dependency.
- “It probably was a red flag, but I guess it doesn’t matter now because of AI…I couldn’t see his face.” (Jacqueline, [06:02])

3. Transition to Finance and Investment Fraud

[06:51–13:50]

After establishing emotional rapport, Brandon started discussing cryptocurrency investments, highlighting supposed profits and promising joint financial success.
To solidify trust, he sent Jacqueline a $100,000 check to invest “for their future,” asking her also to borrow $40,000 from her 401(k).
- “I guess I felt like he gained my trust…why would somebody send you a hundred thousand dollar check, right?” (Jacqueline, [09:05])
The check eventually cleared, adding to Jacqueline’s sense of legitimacy, but later investigation revealed it too was part of the scam, using money from another victim.

4. Love Bombing and Psychological Manipulation

[07:25–13:18]

Brandon consistently “spoiled” Jacqueline with gifts, food deliveries, and constant communication, all classic signs of “love bombing.”
He used spiritual intimacy—praying with and for Jacqueline—deepening her emotional attachment and trust.
- “He would pray, and he actually, I'm not going to say taught me how to pray, but from him, I would also pray.” (Jacqueline, [13:18])
When she expressed doubt or asked for her money back, Brandon introduced a second "broker" character to manage her anxieties and provide a veneer of expertise.

5. Escalation of Financial Losses

[14:08–22:12]

Jacqueline invested incrementally larger amounts: from $40,000, to $80,000–$85,000, eventually over $300,000—all channeled into fake investment accounts (Coinclesta, via E-wallets).
Checked balances showed apparent profits, fueling belief and commitment.
- “It looked like I was already from August, September of 23 to…I don't know, March of 24 was like a million dollars.” (Jacqueline, [22:25])
These platforms and documents were fabricated; police later traced the E-wallets to Singapore and Nigeria.

6. Totaling the Damage: Retirement and Home Equity Lost

[22:25–24:01]

To continue funding the scam, Jacqueline eventually tapped into her fully paid-off condo’s HELOC, following Brandon’s guidance and forged checks.
- “I had to almost start all over again.” (Jacqueline, [35:59])
Banks allowed large fraudulent deposits, leaving her responsible for $368,000 in debt to Bank of America alone.
After taxes and additional fraudulent credit, her total losses exceeded $1 million.

7. Discovery and Aftermath

[24:08–33:13]

Police investigation was triggered by an anonymous call from someone in the scam network.
With help from state troopers, Jacqueline discovered the $100,000 check she’d received was laundered from another scam victim; the scam involved multiple simultaneous victims.
She struggled with overwhelming debt and learned that her income thwarted her eligibility for full bankruptcy relief.
- “I tried to file for bankruptcy…but if you make over $80,000, chapter 13 is dollar for dollar. You're basically just trying to make arrangements to pay these debtors, which is crazy.” (Jacqueline, [27:39])

8. Facing the Perpetrator and the Reality of Online Fraud

[29:12–31:47]

When confronted, “Brandon” denied involvement and continued to feign concern.
- “He even tried at that time to say he’s going to send me some more money, but can he trust me?” (Jacqueline, [29:36])
Jacqueline never learned the scammer’s true identity, concluding the profile photo and backstory were entirely stolen.
Law enforcement traced E-wallets to Singapore and Nigeria but had limited recourse in recovering funds or finding the criminals.
- “That part is just not knowing who these people are. I never heard of the Yahoo boys…and it’s everywhere.” (Jacqueline, [31:17])

9. From Victim to Advocate: Speaking Out

[33:33–35:59]

Rather than hiding in shame, Jacqueline became an outspoken scam awareness advocate, working with AARP’s Fraud Fighter program and participating in media interviews.
- “I refuse to be in the shadows. I wanted everyone to know what happened. I know most people are so fearful and so embarrassed and ashamed that they will not speak up.” (Jacqueline, [33:33])
She highlights the lack of visible representation of African American women among publicly known victims.

10. Lessons and Red Flags

[37:47–41:10]

Recognized red flags in hindsight:
- Quick escalation and urging to move conversations off dating platforms.
- Reluctance to meet in person or appear on video.
- Requests for large sums or control over finances.
Warns that “pig butchering” and similar scams target all demographics.
Final advice for listeners:
- Never give personal or financial information to online contacts.
- Trust your gut and be vigilant for manipulation, love bombing, or undue urgency.
- “Never, ever give your personal information, no matter what, and they may try to trick you. Just super careful.” (Jacqueline, [38:58])
Advice to loved ones: Remain supportive, don’t shame, offer nonjudgmental guidance, and help verify identities.
- “Anyone can be fooled, including myself.” (Jacqueline, [40:32])

11. Hope, Recovery, and the Reality After Loss

[35:52–41:43]

Jacqueline remains optimistic, demonstrating resilience.
- “I just say God didn’t bring me this far to end it like this. I’m not going to get that money back. But…there has to be something somewhere along the line to be just a blessing.” (Jacqueline, [36:48])
She continues to work, teach, and advocate, hoping her story will prevent others from falling victim.

Notable Quotes

On psychological manipulation:
“That’s their job, is to separate people from their money, and that is it.” (Jacqueline, [36:46])
On coming forward:
“I refuse to be in the shadows. I wanted everyone to know what happened.” (Jacqueline, [33:33])
On recognizing red flags:
“Be careful when you go off the platform. It’s that important…you don’t know who you’re talking to.” (Jacqueline, [37:54])
On scammer empathy:
“But they have families, they have mothers, they had sisters. Would they really want this to happen to their family members? I don’t think they would.” (Jacqueline, [39:33])
On hope after trauma:
“I love my life, I want to live, I want to help people. But that doesn’t mean I can’t be angry. We’re all human.” (Jacqueline, [36:46])

Timestamps for Key Segments

[03:23] — What is pig butchering?
[04:36–06:42] — How Jacqueline met “Brandon” and the early warning signs
[06:51–08:48] — Shifting from romance to investment pitch
[13:18–13:50] — The role of shared spirituality
[14:42–16:56] — First major investments and the illusion of growing returns
[22:25–24:01] — Extending into home equity and compounding losses
[24:08–26:19] — Discovery, confronting police and realization of scam
[29:31–31:17] — Final confrontation and loss of identity of the scammer
[33:33–35:59] — Advocacy, media, and healing
[37:54–41:10] — Hindsight, advice for others, and the lasting impact

Final Reflections

Nicole Lapin closes by commending Jacqueline for her courage, emphasizing the importance of breaking the shame barrier and sharing stories for public education. Jacqueline’s journey is a powerful reminder that even vigilant, capable individuals can fall prey to sophisticated scams—and that healing, hope, and advocacy are possible even after severe loss.

For more information and resources, visit AARP Fraud Watch Network or contact local authorities if you suspect a scam.

Scams, Money & Murder: INTERVIEW – Pig Butchering with Jacqueline Crenshaw

Podcast: Scams, Money & Murder
Host: Nicole Lapin
Guest: Jacqueline Crenshaw
Release Date: August 28, 2025

Episode Overview

Key Topics & Discussion Points

1. Introduction to Pig Butchering Scams

[03:23]

Nicole explains that “pig butchering” refers to scammers “fattening up” victims with affection, trust, and investment opportunities before “slaughtering” them by stealing all their money.
The scam Jacqueline endured began on a dating app, combining emotional manipulation and fraudulent investment schemes.

2. Jacqueline’s Story: How the Scam Began

[04:36–07:46]

Urged by friends, Jacqueline joined the dating app BLK in May 2023, meeting a man named "Brandon," who claimed to be a widower with two boys.
The relationship quickly intensified, moving off the dating platform after five to six weeks.
Early red flags: Brandon avoided video calls, made excuses for not meeting in person, and encouraged emotional dependency.
- “It probably was a red flag, but I guess it doesn’t matter now because of AI…I couldn’t see his face.” (Jacqueline, [06:02])

3. Transition to Finance and Investment Fraud

[06:51–13:50]

After establishing emotional rapport, Brandon started discussing cryptocurrency investments, highlighting supposed profits and promising joint financial success.
To solidify trust, he sent Jacqueline a $100,000 check to invest “for their future,” asking her also to borrow $40,000 from her 401(k).
- “I guess I felt like he gained my trust…why would somebody send you a hundred thousand dollar check, right?” (Jacqueline, [09:05])
The check eventually cleared, adding to Jacqueline’s sense of legitimacy, but later investigation revealed it too was part of the scam, using money from another victim.

4. Love Bombing and Psychological Manipulation

[07:25–13:18]

Brandon consistently “spoiled” Jacqueline with gifts, food deliveries, and constant communication, all classic signs of “love bombing.”
He used spiritual intimacy—praying with and for Jacqueline—deepening her emotional attachment and trust.
- “He would pray, and he actually, I'm not going to say taught me how to pray, but from him, I would also pray.” (Jacqueline, [13:18])
When she expressed doubt or asked for her money back, Brandon introduced a second "broker" character to manage her anxieties and provide a veneer of expertise.

5. Escalation of Financial Losses

[14:08–22:12]

Jacqueline invested incrementally larger amounts: from $40,000, to $80,000–$85,000, eventually over $300,000—all channeled into fake investment accounts (Coinclesta, via E-wallets).
Checked balances showed apparent profits, fueling belief and commitment.
- “It looked like I was already from August, September of 23 to…I don't know, March of 24 was like a million dollars.” (Jacqueline, [22:25])
These platforms and documents were fabricated; police later traced the E-wallets to Singapore and Nigeria.

6. Totaling the Damage: Retirement and Home Equity Lost

[22:25–24:01]

To continue funding the scam, Jacqueline eventually tapped into her fully paid-off condo’s HELOC, following Brandon’s guidance and forged checks.
- “I had to almost start all over again.” (Jacqueline, [35:59])
Banks allowed large fraudulent deposits, leaving her responsible for $368,000 in debt to Bank of America alone.
After taxes and additional fraudulent credit, her total losses exceeded $1 million.

7. Discovery and Aftermath

[24:08–33:13]

Police investigation was triggered by an anonymous call from someone in the scam network.
With help from state troopers, Jacqueline discovered the $100,000 check she’d received was laundered from another scam victim; the scam involved multiple simultaneous victims.
She struggled with overwhelming debt and learned that her income thwarted her eligibility for full bankruptcy relief.
- “I tried to file for bankruptcy…but if you make over $80,000, chapter 13 is dollar for dollar. You're basically just trying to make arrangements to pay these debtors, which is crazy.” (Jacqueline, [27:39])

8. Facing the Perpetrator and the Reality of Online Fraud

[29:12–31:47]

When confronted, “Brandon” denied involvement and continued to feign concern.
- “He even tried at that time to say he’s going to send me some more money, but can he trust me?” (Jacqueline, [29:36])
Jacqueline never learned the scammer’s true identity, concluding the profile photo and backstory were entirely stolen.
Law enforcement traced E-wallets to Singapore and Nigeria but had limited recourse in recovering funds or finding the criminals.
- “That part is just not knowing who these people are. I never heard of the Yahoo boys…and it’s everywhere.” (Jacqueline, [31:17])

9. From Victim to Advocate: Speaking Out

[33:33–35:59]

Rather than hiding in shame, Jacqueline became an outspoken scam awareness advocate, working with AARP’s Fraud Fighter program and participating in media interviews.
- “I refuse to be in the shadows. I wanted everyone to know what happened. I know most people are so fearful and so embarrassed and ashamed that they will not speak up.” (Jacqueline, [33:33])
She highlights the lack of visible representation of African American women among publicly known victims.

10. Lessons and Red Flags

[37:47–41:10]

Recognized red flags in hindsight:
- Quick escalation and urging to move conversations off dating platforms.
- Reluctance to meet in person or appear on video.
- Requests for large sums or control over finances.
Warns that “pig butchering” and similar scams target all demographics.
Final advice for listeners:
- Never give personal or financial information to online contacts.
- Trust your gut and be vigilant for manipulation, love bombing, or undue urgency.
- “Never, ever give your personal information, no matter what, and they may try to trick you. Just super careful.” (Jacqueline, [38:58])
Advice to loved ones: Remain supportive, don’t shame, offer nonjudgmental guidance, and help verify identities.
- “Anyone can be fooled, including myself.” (Jacqueline, [40:32])

11. Hope, Recovery, and the Reality After Loss

[35:52–41:43]

Jacqueline remains optimistic, demonstrating resilience.
- “I just say God didn’t bring me this far to end it like this. I’m not going to get that money back. But…there has to be something somewhere along the line to be just a blessing.” (Jacqueline, [36:48])
She continues to work, teach, and advocate, hoping her story will prevent others from falling victim.

Notable Quotes

On psychological manipulation:
“That’s their job, is to separate people from their money, and that is it.” (Jacqueline, [36:46])
On coming forward:
“I refuse to be in the shadows. I wanted everyone to know what happened.” (Jacqueline, [33:33])
On recognizing red flags:
“Be careful when you go off the platform. It’s that important…you don’t know who you’re talking to.” (Jacqueline, [37:54])
On scammer empathy:
“But they have families, they have mothers, they had sisters. Would they really want this to happen to their family members? I don’t think they would.” (Jacqueline, [39:33])
On hope after trauma:
“I love my life, I want to live, I want to help people. But that doesn’t mean I can’t be angry. We’re all human.” (Jacqueline, [36:46])

Timestamps for Key Segments

[03:23] — What is pig butchering?
[04:36–06:42] — How Jacqueline met “Brandon” and the early warning signs
[06:51–08:48] — Shifting from romance to investment pitch
[13:18–13:50] — The role of shared spirituality
[14:42–16:56] — First major investments and the illusion of growing returns
[22:25–24:01] — Extending into home equity and compounding losses
[24:08–26:19] — Discovery, confronting police and realization of scam
[29:31–31:17] — Final confrontation and loss of identity of the scammer
[33:33–35:59] — Advocacy, media, and healing
[37:54–41:10] — Hindsight, advice for others, and the lasting impact

Final Reflections

For more information and resources, visit AARP Fraud Watch Network or contact local authorities if you suspect a scam.

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INTERVIEW: Pig Butchering with Jacqueline Crenshaw

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Summary

Scams, Money & Murder: INTERVIEW – Pig Butchering with Jacqueline Crenshaw

Episode Overview

Key Topics & Discussion Points

1. Introduction to Pig Butchering Scams

2. Jacqueline’s Story: How the Scam Began

3. Transition to Finance and Investment Fraud

4. Love Bombing and Psychological Manipulation

5. Escalation of Financial Losses

6. Totaling the Damage: Retirement and Home Equity Lost

7. Discovery and Aftermath

8. Facing the Perpetrator and the Reality of Online Fraud

9. From Victim to Advocate: Speaking Out

10. Lessons and Red Flags

11. Hope, Recovery, and the Reality After Loss

Notable Quotes

Timestamps for Key Segments

Final Reflections

Summary

Scams, Money & Murder: INTERVIEW – Pig Butchering with Jacqueline Crenshaw

Episode Overview

Key Topics & Discussion Points

1. Introduction to Pig Butchering Scams

2. Jacqueline’s Story: How the Scam Began

3. Transition to Finance and Investment Fraud

4. Love Bombing and Psychological Manipulation

5. Escalation of Financial Losses

6. Totaling the Damage: Retirement and Home Equity Lost

7. Discovery and Aftermath

8. Facing the Perpetrator and the Reality of Online Fraud

9. From Victim to Advocate: Speaking Out

10. Lessons and Red Flags

11. Hope, Recovery, and the Reality After Loss

Notable Quotes

Timestamps for Key Segments

Final Reflections