Sussex woman homeless after boyfriend scams her out of thousands of pounds
Tamsin's two year relationship left living on 50p a day and sleeping in her car
A woman in Sussex was left homeless after being scammed out of over £50,000 by a man she was dating.
Tamsin, whose real name is being protected for anonymity, ended up living on 50p a day and sleeping in her car after the two year relationship.
During their time together the woman in her forties funded a four month roadtrip for her partner, after he lied about having terminal cancer.
The man was arrested after faking his own death.
Tamsin said: "When I look back, I can’t believe that a person can be that nasty or would want to hurt someone who is so caring and loving."
She has since been supported by specialist victim services - but Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne warned that romance fraud is on the rise, and anyone could be a victim:
"Victim Support Sussex has seen a 5.5% increase in romance fraud referrals from Sussex Police in the past year, up from 310 referrals in Jan-Dec 2024 to 327 referrals in Jan-Dec 2025.
“Romance fraud is particularly cruel and, in cases like Tamsin’s, victims are left emotionally and financially devastated, grieving for a relationship they believed was genuine and loving.
“Far too many victims suffer in silence, unsure where to turn after such a profound breach of trust.
Anyone who is a victim of fraud is urged to report it to Sussex Police online or by calling 101.