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US Sentences Nigerian Brothers to 18 Years for Sextortion Scheme

Japhet Hasruna
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Nigerian brothers Samuel Ogoshi, 24, and Samson Ogoshi, 21, have each been sentenced to 18 years in prison by a US court for their roles in a sextortion scheme that led to the tragic death of 17-year-old Jordan DeMay from Marquette, Michigan.

The sentencing, announced by the US Justice Department on Thursday, also includes five years of supervised release for both men. They were convicted of conspiring to sexually exploit minors and conducting an extensive sextortion operation. The brothers exploited and extorted money from over 100 people, including 11 minors.

The scheme’s impact was devastating, culminating in the death of Jordan DeMay, who took his own life as a result of the extortion. This case has drawn significant attention due to its severe consequences for young victims.

Attorney General Merrick B. Garland stated that the sentences are meant to deter others from similar crimes. “These defendants sexually exploited and extorted more than 100 victims, including at least eleven minors, resulting in the tragic death of a 17-year-old high school student,” Garland said. “These sentences should serve as a warning that those who engage in online sexual exploitation and extortion cannot escape accountability. The Justice Department will find them and bring them to justice.”

US Attorney Mark Totten for the Western District of Michigan highlighted the case as a cautionary tale for other criminals. “The sentencing of Samuel and Samson Ogoshi ensures these international criminals will no longer victimize minors in the United States or anywhere else,” said Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson of the FBI Detroit Field Office.

The sextortion scheme, which began in March 2022, led to charges against the Ogoshi brothers and another Nigerian, Ezekiel Robert, in November 2022. The brothers were extradited to the US in August 2023 and pleaded guilty in April 2024.

This case underscores the urgent need for effective measures to protect individuals from online exploitation and serves as a stark reminder of the serious consequences associated with such criminal activities.

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byJaphet Hasruna