⏱ 2 min read
A Jamaican national, Sefton Stewart, 40, has pleaded guilty in a Michigan court for his role in a nationwide fraud scheme that swindled at least $3.4 million from over 25 victims across the United States. The scheme, which took place between October 2019 and September 2024, involved Stewart and his co-conspirators, including Danielle Diarbakerly, deceiving people into believing they had won large prizes in a multistate lottery. To claim these false winnings, victims were told to pay taxes and fees, with the conspirators using fake documents to convince them. A significant portion of the funds were sent to Jamaica, where Stewart resided, and at least one victim was from West Michigan.
Stewart’s guilty plea comes after he was extradited from Jamaica to Grand Rapids, Michigan in March 2026. He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison and will be sentenced by United States District Judge Paul Maloney. This case demonstrates the commitment to holding international fraudsters accountable, with U.S. Attorney Timothy VerHey stating that the scheme preyed on vulnerable citizens.
Co-conspirator Danielle Diarbakerly, a Florida resident, pleaded guilty in August 2025 to conspiracy to launder money obtained in the fraud scheme and was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison. The U.S. Marshals Service played a crucial role in extraditing Stewart to the United States to face charges.
The guilty plea is a significant step towards justice for the victims of the nationwide fraud scheme. As U.S. Attorney VerHey noted, it shows the dedication to pursuing and prosecuting those who engage in such fraudulent activities, regardless of their location.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Defendant: Michigan
- Location: MI
- Source: DOJ Press Release
