By: Tunji Okunlola
A Nigerian national, Charles Nnamdi Emesim, has been sentenced to 115 months in prison in the United States for orchestrating a long-running romance and internet fraud scheme that defrauded victims of more than $700,000.
The sentence was handed down on Wednesday by U.S. District Judge Robert Wier, according to a statement issued Thursday by the U.S. Department of Justice.
Emesim, 53, a legal resident of Newark, New Jersey, was convicted of conspiracy to commit money laundering in connection with multiple online fraud operations, including romance scams, lottery fraud, inheritance schemes, investment scams, government impersonation, and medical expense fraud.
Prosecutors said the fraudulent activities spanned from December 9, 2013, to June 28, 2024. During that period, Emesim allegedly operated at least 17 bank accounts in his name and through businesses linked to him, including Chadon Export and Chadon Trucking.
Investigators disclosed that at least 23 victims across the United States were deceived into transferring more than $700,000 through cash deposits, wire transfers, cashier’s cheques, and money orders into accounts associated with the convict.
Court documents highlighted the case of an elderly widow in Kentucky who fell victim to a romance scam involving a man posing as “Michael Oliver.” She was later introduced to an individual claiming to be a customs official named “Samuel Rock,” who promised to help transfer supposed wealth.
Authorities said the victim met the impersonator at Lexington Airport, provided him with money, transported him, and purchased a tablet for him under false pretences. Investigators further revealed that Emesim personally impersonated the fake customs official during face-to-face interactions with the victim.
The widow reportedly lost tens of thousands of dollars through cash payments, gift cards, and prepaid debit cards sent to Emesim and his associates.
According to investigators, proceeds from the fraud were often withdrawn in cash or transferred to accounts belonging to relatives, associates, and businesses in Nigeria.
U.S. prosecutors and FBI officials described the operation as emotionally manipulative and predatory, noting that it specifically targeted vulnerable individuals, particularly elderly victims, through fake relationships and false promises.
In delivering judgment, the court described Emesim’s conduct as “heartless and unquestionably reprehensible,” citing the devastating emotional and financial impact on victims.
Under federal law, Emesim is expected to serve at least 85 per cent of his sentence. He will also remain under supervised release for three years after completing his prison term.
The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kate Dieruf.
#fbi #US #Charles Nnamdi Emesim #fraud