NY couple accused of using fake dating profile to scam Ridgefield man out of $18,000

Two Westchester County residents are facing charges after police say a Ridgefield man was manipulated through a fake dating profile and pressured into sending thousands of dollars.

A dating scam investigation in Ridgefield, Connecticut, has led to charges against two Westchester County residents accused of using a fake online dating profile to obtain money from a local man.

According to CT Insider, Messiah Guest, 25, and Jaelyn Barksdale, 22, were arrested on warrants following a police investigation into a fraud complaint filed in October 2025. Authorities allege that the victim met someone through Match.com before receiving messages from a person identifying themselves as Jaelyn “Jazz” Barksdale.

The victim reportedly sent money over several weeks after being told the person needed help paying rent. Police records cited by CT Insider say the requests escalated, with payments made through Zelle and CashApp before the victim was later directed to use Western Union.

Investigators said the victim initially sent more than $14,600 between October 14 and November 13, 2025. By the end of the investigation, police determined that at least $18,000 had allegedly been received from him.

The case also involved alleged threats. According to the warrant, the victim reported receiving messages warning that he and his parents could be harmed if he stopped sending money. Police later alleged that both suspects benefited from the scheme.

This case shows how romance scams can move quickly from emotional manipulation to financial pressure and intimidation. A request for urgent money, promises of repayment, changing phone numbers, pressure to use different payment services, and threats are all serious warning signs.

NoDuble reminds users to be cautious when someone they have never met asks for money through a dating app or social platform. Never send money under pressure, keep screenshots and payment records, and report suspicious behavior as early as possible.