Public's Help Sought in Online-Dating Fraud Case

A suspected prolific scammer accused of preying on women via dating websites and persuading them to invest in bogus business ventures is behind bars as deputies call for more victims to come forward.

James Bruce Rice, 52, allegedly lulled the women into trusting him before proposing they fork over cash for fraudulent ventures, including diamond dealing and catering, according to a news release from the Manhattan Beach Police Department.

Rice is also accused of stealing a victim’s jewelry and a car, which he allegedly resold in Arizona.

Police "Wanted" Poster

Currently serving time for a grand theft unrelated to his alleged online-dating scams, James has been linked to victims as far away as Alaska and Alabama. Investigators said victims living in Beverly Hills, Hacienda Heights, Redondo Beach and Manhattan Beach have also come forward.

Rice met his victims on dating websites, and then get together in person, police said.

Investigators believe James Bruce Rice (pictured at right) used these aliases:

  • James Turner
  • Jimmy Turner
  • Jimmi Turner

The Manhattan Beach Police Department and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department are probing the allegations.

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