Nigerian Man Jailed In U.s. For Sextortion Scam That Led To Teen’s Death

U.S. Attorney David Metcalf has announced that Samuel Olasunkanmi Abiodun, a Nigerian national, has been sentenced to five years in federal prison for his involvement in a sextortion and wire fraud scheme that tragically led to the death of a young man in Pennsylvania.

Abiodun admitted guilt in December to charges of conspiracy to commit money laundering and wire fraud.

He was arrested in Nigeria alongside co-conspirator Imoleayo Samuel Aina, also known as “Alice Dave.” Both men were taken into FBI custody on July 31, 2024, and extradited to the United States.

A third suspect, Afeez Olatunji Adewale, remains in Nigeria as extradition proceedings continue. He faces similar charges of money laundering conspiracy and wire fraud.

Aina, who has also pleaded guilty, could face a life sentence at his upcoming hearing scheduled for August.

According to U.S. Attorney Metcalf, Abiodun acted as a financial intermediary in the scheme, which inflicted severe emotional trauma on the victim and lasting grief on his family.

“These fraudsters prey on vulnerable and frightened young people with no concern for the emotional toll or devastating consequences,” Metcalf said. “With this prosecution, we aim not only to hold these individuals accountable but also to send a strong warning: The Department of Justice will go to great lengths to pursue and punish those who exploit innocent Americans.”

The case was investigated by the FBI and the Abington Township Police Department, with vital assistance from law enforcement in Nigeria.