Welcome to Arrest Stories. A thirty-six-year-old former professional football player stands accused of orchestrating an elaborate romance scam that allegedly bilked women out of approximately three hundred thousand dollars across two countries. Here's what may have happened.
Buster Skrine was taken into custody in Roswell on Wednesday, facing charges of identity fraud, financial transaction card fraud, and theft by taking in what authorities describe as "an extensive financial fraud scheme." According to police reports, Skrine allegedly targeted unsuspecting women through online dating platforms, weaving elaborate tales of romantic connection while simultaneously plotting financial deception.
The alleged scheme followed a calculated pattern. Investigators say Skrine would approach women on dating apps, establishing what appeared to be genuine relationships before fabricating stories about financial troubles. He allegedly promised victims repayment from his professional football annuity, creating a veneer of legitimacy for his requests.
"The females help Skrine as they believe this is a serious relationship, allowing him to use their finances under the pretense of being paid back," officials stated. "Skrine finances his life from one female to pay for the lifestyle with another female."
The money allegedly funded an extravagant lifestyle. Authorities say the stolen funds were used "to support his lavish lifestyle, including financing Airbnbs, travel, and gift cards."
The case spans international borders. In April, Skrine was arrested in Saskatchewan and held at the correctional center before being released on bail with GPS monitoring. However, investigators allege he "removed his device and fled back to the United States."
Officials paint a picture of extensive criminal activity, stating "Skrine has a history of about six hundred thousand dollars in financial fraud and six hundred fifty thousand dollars in money laundering for approximately ten years across the United States and Canada."
Authorities emphasize their commitment to justice, with detectives "working closely with Canadian authorities to ensure Skrine answers for all of his charges in both countries."
All suspects presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Do not take this report as factual, always verify facts. Thanks for watching Arrest Stories.