Netflix has made an official move to create a documentary, titled Untold: Wide Deceiver, on one of the most audacious scams in modern sports. The focus is on Daejon Love, a 35-year-old con artist who deceived women out of over $1.3 million by pretending to be a wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers.
An FBI affidavit reveals how Daejon Labrayae Love allegedly employed a fake persona as a 49ers player, using custom helmets and prop money to dupe 26 women out of the substantial sum. The documentary aims to explore the intricate workings of Love’s fraud and includes interviews with the victims who fell for his deceitful scheme.
Federal prosecutors have pointed out that Love, alongside his 18-year-old partner, Taylor Jamie Chan, used dating apps such as Tinder, Bumble, Hinge, and Facebook Dating to identify targets in California, Oregon, and Washington. Love crafted his deception by adopting a method actor approach. He staged faux workouts and recorded himself running football routes on public beaches wearing replica equipment.
According to investigators, Love used football imagery to bolster his claims of being a 49ers player, despite assertions from team, and NFL representatives stating he had never been employed by them. The scam unraveled in August when the FBI apprehended Love and Chan at an Idaho airport. Love faces charges of federal conspiracy and wire fraud, with numerous victims identified across various states.
In one video, Love pretended to sign a contract, parading team gear and declaring his allegiance to the “Niner gang.” He excused his absence from NFL rosters by citing an allegedly injured finger. An Instagram account linked to Love exhibited 49ers gear and luxury cars, aiding his false identity as an NFL athlete.
Furthermore, Love pressured victims into acquiring high-interest loans under the guise of investing in lucrative programs, which in reality, he never did. These funds were spent on extravagant cars, costly jewelry, and luxurious holidays to maintain the illusion of opulence for potential victims. Upon financial questioning or depletion of funds, Love severed contact.
Charged, Love pleaded not guilty and remains detained without bail, awaiting a federal jury trial on December 15.