Three Nigerian nationals have been charged in a federal court in Rhode Island for their alleged involvement in an online romance and wire fraud conspiracy. The accused are William Elvis, 35, Moses Kolawole Hezekiah, 34, and Destiny Okobeni Oghentega, 30. Each faces one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
Details of the Alleged Scheme
According to court documents, the conspiracy began in early 2021. Elvis, Hezekiah, Oghentega, and others allegedly defrauded individuals through online impersonation and romance-based scams. Victims, including an elderly Rhode Island resident, were contacted by individuals who falsely portrayed themselves as professionals working overseas. Over time, the scammers developed relationships with their victims.
Fraudulent Requests for Money
The conspirators repeatedly requested money under false pretenses, such as financial hardship, legal issues, or medical emergencies. Victims were directed to send funds via gift cards, Bitcoin transactions, and other means, including transfers to accounts controlled by the scheme's participants. Substantial sums of money were sent by victims over the course of the scheme.
Investigation Findings
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted the investigation. It determined that the identities used were misappropriated without the individuals' knowledge. Communications and financial activity were traced back to the defendants in Nigeria.
It is important to note that a federal criminal indictment is merely an accusation. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John P. McAdams.
