A 47-year-old Nigerian man, Darlington Akporugo, has pleaded guilty to wire fraud and conspiracy related to a nationwide romance scam that targeted vulnerable victims across the United States, U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei announced on March 3. Akporugo, who is an illegal immigrant, played a central role in the scheme, which spanned from Chicago to Kentucky, by luring victims into fake online relationships and convincing them to send money to bank accounts under his control.
Akporugo admitted to the fraud charges, including aiding and abetting a multi-year scheme that affected more than 25 victims, primarily elderly or retired individuals. The scam involved over $3 million in stolen funds, with much of the money funneled overseas. In some cases, victims were also coerced into opening lines of credit or buying luxury items, including a vehicle, for Akporugo’s personal use.
Akporugo will be sentenced on June 6, and he faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.