Retired Aussie Police Officer Scammed Out Of $1.2 Million In Sophisticated Crypto Fraud In Thailand
August 15, 2025 — A former Queensland police officer, Michael Reinecke, has become the latest victim of a sophisticated cryptocurrency scam that cost him nearly 40 million Thai baht (approximately $1.2 million USD) while living in Thailand. The case highlights an ongoing rise in increasingly elaborate crypto fraud targeting retirees and expatriates in Southeast Asia.
Reinecke, who served over 30 years in law enforcement, fell prey to a fraudster known only as “Alex,” reportedly a German national residing in Phuket. Their relationship began online via social media approximately a year ago and quickly developed into multiple in-person meetings. According to court filings and police reports, Alex presented Reinecke with…
