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Complete Story
07/10/2026
Scammer exposed by KARE 11 Investigates on the run
KARE 11 News
SAVAGE, Minn. — A scammer whose home rental scheme was first exposed by KARE 11 investigators is now on the run after skipping a court sentencing last week.
Ky Kao has spent much of the last few years in courtrooms around the Twin Cities metro answering to charges of theft, identity theft, and theft by swindle.
More recently, Kao pleaded guilty to swindling more than $35,000 from an Edina business. But when it came time for his sentencing last week, he never showed up.
Kao has also pleaded guilty to multiple thefts and identity theft charges in Scott County, where he lives. Among those charges: attempting to get a loan under a different name and stealing a $4,000 bracelet from Walmart. According to a search warrant, he was recently suspected of stealing three iPhones as well.
But Investigators haven't been able to find him for that case either.
"So he's just been a public safety menace out there," said Scott County Attorney Ron Hocevar.
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