Darlington Akporugo, a 47-year-old Nigerian man, has pleaded guilty to wire fraud and conspiracy related to a nationwide romance scam, as announced by US Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
On March 3, Akporugo was identified by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement as a key player in a scheme operating from Houston, targeting victims from Chicago to Kentucky.
Collaborating with accomplices, he deceived individuals into engaging in fraudulent online relationships, ultimately persuading them to transfer funds to bank accounts he controlled.
According to ICE, Akporugo, an undocumented immigrant in the US, entered his guilty plea in the US District Court for the Southern District of Texas, admitting to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud, as well as wire fraud itself. His scam involved over 25 victims, most of whom were elderly or retired.
“This individual and his accomplices exploited the vulnerabilities of the elderly and recently widowed, robbing them of their hard-earned life savings,” said Chad Plantz, Special Agent in Charge of ICE Homeland Security Investigations. “Thanks to the courageous victims who reported this to law enforcement, and the strong partnerships we maintain with domestic and international law enforcement, we were able to uncover this despicable scheme and hold those responsible accountable.”
Authorities disclosed that Akporugo was arrested just days before his wedding. He used fake identities to contact victims on social media, fostering trust and subsequently manipulating them into sending money for fictitious business ventures or fabricated personal emergencies.
As part of his plea agreement, Akporugo acknowledged that he solicited victims mainly through platforms like Facebook and directed them to deposit funds into accounts managed by him or his co-conspirators. Much of the stolen money was subsequently transferred overseas.
In addition to cash and wire transfers, Akporugo managed to convince victims to open lines of credit in his name and, in at least one instance, purchase a luxury vehicle for his personal use.
During an investigation spanning multiple years, ICE authorities identified over 25 victims, primarily elderly or retired individuals. The total losses resulting from the scam surpass $3 million.
“As we’ve seen, victims of romance scams endure significant financial loss, often depleting their entire life savings,” Ganjei remarked. “Those who fall prey to such fraud are frequently too embarrassed to come forward. While this reaction is understandable, we urge victims to report their experiences, as their stories can help prevent future victimization of others.”
Akporugo is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Charles Eskridge on June 6. He faces a maximum of 20 years in federal prison and a potential fine of $250,000. He will remain in custody until the hearing.
In May 2024, the much-anticipated wedding took a surprising turn when both Akporugo and his bride, Jasmin Sood, 35, were arrested just days before their ceremony.
