US Court Convicts Edwin Okoronkwo and Wife for Catfishing Scam
The United States Department of Justice has announced that a Nigerian citizen, Edwin Okoronkwo, will be deported after serving a 75-month prison sentence for his role in a fraudulent scheme that targeted unsuspecting Americans.
Okoronkwo, alongside his wife, Julie Okoronkwo, used stolen identities and online scams to impersonate high-ranking US military officials and deceive victims into sending them money.
Details of the Fraudulent Scheme
🔹 Modus Operandi: The couple used false social media profiles to lure victims into believing they were dealing with US military officers on overseas missions.
🔹 Role of Julie Okoronkwo: She frequently called victims to reinforce the scam’s authenticity.
🔹 Use of Stolen Identities: Julie, who worked at a hospital, illegally accessed personal identification details such as Social Security numbers and driver’s licenses to further the fraud.
🔹 Money Transfers: Victims were tricked into sending funds via the United States Postal Service, FedEx, and UPS.
Court Sentencing and Restitution Orders
🏛 Sentencing Judge: US District Judge Brian C. Buescher
⚖️ Edwin Okoronkwo: 75 months in prison, a $342,535 restitution order, three years of supervised release, and mandatory deportation.
⚖️ Julie Okoronkwo: 25 months in prison, convicted on January 10, 2025.
At Edwin’s sentencing, Judge Buescher described the fraud as a “tragedy for the victims”, emphasizing the emotional and financial damage suffered by those deceived.
Implications and Final Thoughts
This case highlights the growing crackdown on online fraud and identity theft in the US, with authorities committed to prosecuting and deporting individuals engaged in such crimes. It serves as a strong warning to fraudulent actors exploiting unsuspecting victims online.
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