Suspected $2 million scam artist busted in the Bay Area, just before authorities say he planned to flee the country

Mingtao Chen, a 28-year-old from Daly City, is accused of defrauding victims across the U.S. of approximately $2 million, utilizing a fake passport.

Prosecutors describe Chen as having no legitimate job or family ties in the U.S., suggesting his primary source of income is from extensive criminal activities.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Lisa Cisneros expressed concerns that if released, Chen could evade justice, potentially removing a GPS monitor and fleeing.

The charges against Chen include severe financial crimes, with the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence if convicted.

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