WHEELING, W.Va. — An Ohio County man faces federal criminal charges after he allegedly stole nearly $100,000 in a romance scheme.
U.S. Attorney for Northern West Virginia Bill Ihlenfeld said Eugene LeClear, 52, of Wheeling, began an online relationship with a woman two years ago.
LeClear allegedly told the woman he needed money for things like medical expenses and to clean up legal problems. He also told her he had access to millions of dollars from gambling winnings.
LeClear stole $96,000, Ihlenfeld said.
“Romance scammers are expert manipulators who develop relationships that feel very real,” Ihlenfeld said. “Victims are understandably reluctant to come forward because they are embarrassed, but we hope they still will so that action can be taken to prevent others from being harmed.”
LeClear is charged with five counts of wire fraud. He was arrested Thursday and is being held in the Northern Regional Jail pending an appearance in federal court.