Florida Pair Accused of $200K Fraud Targeting Friends with Cruise and Luxury Goods Scam

Authorities have reported a felony case in which a Florida couple is accused of scamming their longtime friends out of more than $200,000 through fake cruise deals and luxury jewelry offers. Antonio Diaz, 65, and Maria Blasco Diaz, 64, were arrested on April 7 and charged with a “large-scale fraud scheme,” as officials described it.

According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, the couple allegedly took a total of $200,259.85 from multiple victims. Investigators say the couple used trust and close relationships to carry out their fraudulent scheme over several months.

One victim told the court that her entire family was affected by the crime. She said, “Our whole family was scammed by her, through friendship. It was somebody who we trusted wholly.” Moreover, she said that her elderly parents and nearly 20 relatives were also drawn into the plan.

According to the New York Post, police said the scheme began in 2022 with offers of discounted luxury watches. Diaz allegedly claimed he could get Rolex and Patek Philippe watches at half price through a jewelry store connection. Victims paid approximately $139,000 for 16 Rolex watches and one Patek Philippe watch. They also paid for a pair of diamond earrings, which were offered to them at a discounted price of $3,000. Authorities said that none of these items were ever delivered.

By 2023, the couple shifted their scheme to travel deals. Blasco Diaz allegedly told one victim that she could secure discounted cruises through a friend who worked for a major cruise line. The victim and her family sent $44,910 through Zelle, checks, and cash. The payments were meant to cover cruise tickets, upgrades, hotel stays and other travel costs.

As the planned July 9, 2023, departure date approached, the victim reportedly asked for travel documents. Investigators say Blasco Diaz then gave repeated excuses and failed to provide valid information. The victim later contacted the cruise company and learned that no reservations had been made for her family.

Court records show that the couple later issued checks as partial repayment. However, the checks came from a newly opened account which had insufficient funds. Authorities say that no meaningful refunds were made.

The couple is now facing several charges, including organized fraud over $50,000, grand theft, theft from the elderly, and uttering forged instruments. Blasco Diaz also faces a charge for issuing worthless checks.

A judge has ordered both suspects to be held on a $35,000 bond as the case remains under investigation.