New Zealand Woman Accused of Murder After Faking $160K Crypto Profits to Mother

A New Zealand woman stands accused of murdering her elderly mother following an elaborate cryptocurrency scam. Julia DeLuney, 53, allegedly fabricated $160,000 in crypto profits days before the killing, while draining over $40,000 from her mother's investments the previous year.

Forensic evidence contradicts DeLuney's claim that her 79-year-old mother died from an accidental fall. Financial records reveal systematic transfers to crypto platforms totaling $90,000, with $40,902 in losses. The alleged deception culminated in a fraudulent email requesting $18,000 for withdrawal fees on nonexistent profits.

Court testimony paints a picture of prolonged financial exploitation, with the victim reporting $85,000 missing from her home prior to her death. The case highlights how cryptocurrency's opaque nature can facilitate both fraud and violence.