Former NFL cornerback Buster Skrine arrested on multi-state fraud charges

Former NFL cornerback Buster Skrine, 36, was arrested in Roswell, Georgia, on 18 counts of financial fraud, including allegations of defrauding women through dating apps and evading Canadian authorities.

NFL career and post-retirement legal troubles
Skrine played 11 seasons (2011–2022) for the Cleveland Browns, New York Jets, Chicago Bears, San Francisco 49ers, and Tennessee Titans, earning over $40 million. His retirement was marred by an August 2023 arrest in Canada for allegedly defrauding banks of $100,000, followed by a skipped court appearance that left him a fugitive.

Dating app scheme targets victims
Per Roswell Police, Skrine connected with women on dating platforms, fabricated financial hardships, and borrowed $300,000 from three victims, falsely promising repayment from his NFL annuity. Funds were allegedly spent on Airbnb rentals, travel, and gift cards.

Charges span identity fraud, theft
Skrine faces charges in Georgia for deposit account fraud, identity fraud, financial transaction card fraud, theft by taking, and attempted theft. Roswell authorities confirmed collaboration with Canadian officials to address his outstanding warrant.

Cross-border accountability pending
While jailed in Georgia, Skrine remains wanted in Canada for prior fraud allegations. The case highlights escalating legal challenges for the former athlete, whose post-NFL life contrasts sharply with his on-field tenure.