Fairfield Travel Agent Scams South Asian Families Out of Millions – Gets 9 Years Behind Bars

A Fairfield travel agent was sentenced to nine years in prison after orchestrating a fraudulent scheme that targeted South Asian families, swindling them out of their hard-earned savings with fake travel packages and visa services.

How the Scam Unfolded

The agent, identified as Rajiv Mehta, lured victims with promises of discounted flights, luxury vacations, and guaranteed U.S. work visas. Families handed over thousands, only to realize they had been duped when no bookings materialized.

• Fake Travel Offers: Mehta advertised "exclusive deals" on social media and community forums.
• Visa Fraud: Claimed he could fast-track immigration paperwork for a hefty fee.
• Stolen Identities: Used victims’ personal details to open unauthorized credit lines.

The Fallout

Over 50 families reported losses, with some losing their life savings. Authorities uncovered a trail of forged documents and empty bank accounts. Mehta pleaded guilty to multiple counts of wire fraud and identity theft.

Legal Consequences

The judge condemned Mehta’s actions as "predatory and heartless," ordering him to repay $1.2 million in restitution. His sentence sends a strong message to fraudulent operators preying on immigrant communities.

What Do You Think?

• Should immigration fraud carry harsher penalties than financial fraud alone?
• Do social media platforms bear responsibility for enabling scams like this?
• Is nine years enough for crimes that devastate families financially and emotionally?