US court jails 2 Nigerian brothers for deadly sextortion scheme

Samuel and Samson Ogoshi, two brothers from Lagos, Nigeria, have been sentenced to 18 years in a U.S. federal prison for orchestrating a vast sextortion scheme that tragically led to the death of 17-year-old Jordan DeMay from Michigan.

This scheme, which exploited over 100 victims, included at least 11 minors, highlighting a grim chapter in international cybercrime.

“Today’s sentencing of Samuel and Samson Ogoshi sends a thundering message,” proclaimed U.S. Attorney Mark Totten.

“To criminals who commit these schemes: you are not immune from justice. We will track you down and hold you accountable, even if we have to go half-way around the world to do so.”

The brothers exploited hacked social media accounts, masquerading as young women to solicit explicit images from unsuspecting victims.

Once obtained, they threatened to disseminate these images to the victims’ family and friends unless a ransom was paid. This insidious operation was detailed in a press release from the United States Attorney’s Office.

Attorney General Merrick B. Garland emphasized the case’s gravity, stating, “These sentences should serve as a warning that the perpetrators of online sexual exploitation and extortion cannot escape accountability for their heinous crimes by hiding behind their phones and computers.”

In November 2022, the U.S. Attorney’s Office charged the Ogoshi brothers alongside another Nigerian, Ezekiel Robert, who is currently appealing his extradition to the U.S.

Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge in Michigan, noted, “The sentencing of sextortionists Samuel and Samson Ogoshi ensures both international criminals will no longer victimize minors in the United States or throughout the world.”

The comprehensive investigation was a collaborative effort by the FBI, Marquette Sheriff’s Department, and Michigan State Police Cybercrimes Unit, with critical assistance from Nigerian authorities.

This case underscores the relentless pursuit of justice across borders, ensuring that those who abuse technology for exploitation face the full weight of the law.