A Nigerian national, Edwin Okoronkwo, has been sentenced to 75 months in a U.S. federal prison for his role in a large-scale online fraud scheme that targeted unsuspecting Americans. Following his release, Okoronkwo will be deported, according to a statement from the United States Department of Justice (DOJ).
Okoronkwo and his wife, Julie Okoronkwo, both lawful permanent residents of the U.S., engaged in a “catfishing” scam in which they posed as high-ranking U.S. military personnel on overseas missions to deceive victims into sending money. Julie Okoronkwo, who played a key role in convincing victims of the scheme’s legitimacy, was sentenced to 25 months in prison earlier in January.
According to court documents, the couple used stolen identities, including social security numbers and driver’s license information obtained from Julie’s workplace at a hospital, to further their fraudulent activities. They persuaded victims to send money through the United States Postal Service, FedEx, and UPS.
Following their conviction, a U.S. District Judge ordered Edwin Okoronkwo to pay $342,535 in restitution to seven victims. He will also serve three years of supervised release before his deportation.
The judge described the crimes as a “tragedy for the victims,” emphasizing the devastating impact of the fraud. The case highlights ongoing efforts by U.S. authorities to crack down on online scams and identity theft.
