Opening arguments began Monday for the trial of Paul Francois, a man whom police call the “Sweetheart Swindler.”
Prosecutors said Francois stole women's hearts, as well as their money.
According to investigators, Francois wined and dined two women at the same time in June 2007. Police said he tried to convince both of them, who were from New York, to move to Florida and to marry him. Francois also convinced them to open joint bank accounts with him, the Broward Sheriff’s Office said.
One woman realized something was wrong when she tried to write a check from their account in October 2007 and it bounced, according to police.
Investigators said Francois wiped out all the money. In total, Francois is accused of stealing nearly $400,000 from both of them.
"He played on their emotions," said prosecutor Al Guttmann.
Francois was arrested by the Broward Sheriff's Office Aug. 12, 2009.
The defense is expected to make opening statements later Monday afternoon.