Lengthy Prison Term for Forged Trust Scheme Targeting Elderly

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A 52-year-old man from Studio City, California has been sentenced to 16 years in federal prison for his role in a sprawling fraud scheme that targeted elderly victims. Matthew Jason Kroth pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The scheme involved identity theft, forged trust documents, and the dismemberment and disposal of a victim's body to conceal the death.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing problem of financial fraud targeting the elderly, as well as the disturbing lengths criminals will go to cover up their crimes. It underscores the need for stronger protections and resources to help vulnerable older adults avoid becoming victims of such schemes.

The details

According to court records, Kroth broke into the home of an elderly man in 2020 and stole his personal information and mail. After the victim died, Kroth and his co-conspirators used forged trust documents and power-of-attorney forms to gain control of the victim's assets, selling his property and accessing his financial accounts. To conceal the death, the group dismembered and disposed of the victim's body. Kroth also admitted to receiving proceeds from the fraudulent sale of another victim's real estate.

• In the summer of 2020, Kroth broke into the home of an elderly man and stole his personal information and mail.
• After the victim died, Kroth and his co-conspirators used forged documents to gain control of the victim's assets.
• From 2020 through January 2023, the conspiracy relied on interstate wire transfers to carry out the fraud scheme.
• In January 2023, Kroth was found in possession of methamphetamine, cutting agents, a digital scale, ammunition, and packaging materials, with the intent to distribute the drug.

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow James Rhys Kantor out on bail.