NC federal court sentences Nigerian man to 15 years in romance scam case

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A federal judge has sentenced a Nigerian man to 15 years in prison for his role in a fraud and money laundering scheme that targeted victims in the United States.

Saheed Sunday Owolabi was convicted by a jury of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Prosecutors say he defrauded victims and helped launder more than $1.5 million to Nigeria.

According to court information, Owolabi carried out what is commonly known as a romance scam, pretending to be a woman online to build relationships with men in the United States. Prosecutors say he and others used those relationships to convince victims to send money and personal information.

Authorities say Owolabi and his co-conspirators also used bank accounts provided by victims to move money tied to other fraudulent operations. Investigators say the scheme included more than $120,000 taken from at least one victim in the Eastern District of North Carolina, among other victims.

In a statement, U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle said, “Who hasn’t suffered some form of the ‘Nigerian Prince’ schemes. Inmate Owolabi, no prince, stole from our vulnerable citizens. This case shows that if you try to defraud the citizens of the Eastern District of North Carolina, our office will bring you to justice no matter where you are. Cheaters. Never. Win.”

Charlotte FBI Special Agent in Charge Reid Davis said the case highlights efforts to disrupt international fraud networks.

At sentencing, Chief U.S. District Judge Richard Myers determined Owolabi played a leadership role in the operation, which involved sophisticated money laundering and caused significant financial harm to victims.

Prosecutors also referenced images found on Owolabi’s phone at the time of his arrest that they say showed how the stolen money was spent.