A retired Covina couple is speaking out after they were scammed out of a whopping $845,000 dollars, losing nearly all of their life savings.
Thursday, May 21, 2026 5:54PMA retired Covina couple is speaking out after they were scammed out of a whopping $845,000 dollars, losing nearly all of their life savings.
It all started when Peter and Diane Hata received a call in February 2025 from someone impersonating an U.S. Postal Service worker. They accused the Hatas of shipping illegal guns and claimed that the FBI was conducting an active investigation. After being transferred to a video conference with a supposed FBI agent, they were informed that they could expedite their case through sending money.
Over the course of several months after, the couple sent the scammers tens of thousands of dollars through cryptocurrency. They even went as far as taking out an equity loan from their home of 37 years.
"All this time they kept reassuring us that you'd get your money back soon," said Peter Hata. "I know this is hard for people to believe, but these people were extremely convincing. " The scammers even used spoofed phone numbers and fake FBI documents to convince the couple to keep sending money. After facing financial issues due to the excessive payments, the couple called the real FBI and realized that they were being scammed.
They were informed that there were no real agents with those names.
"I feel like I am stuck," said Diane Hata. She now suffers from anxiety and depression because of the incident. Experts warn that law enforcement will never call and ask for personal information. It's important to verify a caller's authenticity by contacting your local police station before taking any action.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Retired Air Force Thunderbird pilot analyzes Idaho air show collision videoVideo of two planes colliding during an air show at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho has the public and officials wondering what went wrong in the sky.
Read more »
Kate Middleton Retired Basic Flats for a Chic Slingback Ballet Shoe — Nail the Look for $34Kate Middleton's two-toned slingback shoes are even classier than regular flats. We found the trendy, expensive look for just $34 — details!
Read more »
San Antonio veteran, retired principal spreads positivity through spinal cord injury recoveryA retired Army veteran went from working as a mentor and substitute principal to having his healthy life turned upside down.
Read more »
Retired police officer avoids prison after dogs mauled toddler in east London park.The dogs, Indiana and Dakota, were allegedly 'tossing the girl around like a toy' in Raphael Park in Romford, causing serious injury. Nigel Gray initially claimed ignorance, but later expressed remorse and agreed to put down his dogs.
Read more »