Predatory marriage, also known as “deceptive marriage” or “marriage fraud,” is the practice of intentionally targeting and marrying a vulnerable person (often older adults) with the primary goal of gaining access to their financial resources or assets. This typically involves manipulation, coercion, and exploitation, and can have significant emotional and financial consequences for the victim.
Here are some key characteristics of predatory marriage:
- Targeting vulnerable individuals: Perpetrators often target individuals who are isolated, lonely, or have diminished mental capacity due to age, illness, or disability.
- Deception and manipulation: They may use false pretenses, flattery, or emotional manipulation to gain the victim’s trust and affection.
- Isolation and control: They may isolate the victim from friends and family, and control their access to information and resources.
- Financial exploitation: The ultimate goal is to gain access to the victim’s money, property, or other assets, often through marriage or manipulation.
- Legal implications: In some cases, predatory marriage may be considered illegal, depending on the specific circumstances and actions of the perpetrator.
Here are some of the potential consequences for victims of predatory marriage:
- Financial loss: The victim may lose significant amounts of money or property to the perpetrator.
- Emotional abuse: The victim may experience emotional distress, isolation, and trauma.
- Legal problems: If the perpetrator is involved in illegal activities, the victim may face legal consequences as well.
If you suspect that someone you know may be a victim of predatory marriage, here are some resources that can help:
- Adult Protective Services: These agencies can investigate suspected abuse and neglect of vulnerable adults.
- National Center on Elder Abuse: They provide information and resources for victims of elder abuse, including financial exploitation.
- Legal Aid: An attorney can advise the victim on their legal rights and options.
It’s important to remember that anyone can be a victim of predatory marriage, regardless of age or background. If you are concerned about yourself or someone you know, please don’t hesitate to seek help. There are resources available to protect victims and bring perpetrators to justice.
