Samuel Ogoshi, Conspiracy to Sexually Exploit Minors, Michigan 2022

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Nigerian Brothers Sentenced in Sextortion Scheme

A Sextortion scheme that resulted in the death of a 17-year-old high school student has led to prison sentences for two Nigerian brothers. Samuel Ogoshi, 24, and Samson Ogoshi, 21, were sentenced to 210 months in prison each for conspiracy to sexually exploit minors.

The scheme, which targeted over 100 victims, including at least 11 minors, was carried out while the brothers were living in Lagos, Nigeria. They posed as young women on social media, making fake profiles and contacting victims. They then solicited the victims to produce sexually explicit images of themselves, threatening to disclose the images to their family, friends, and classmates unless they agreed to pay money using online cash applications.

U.S. Attorney Mark Totten for the Western District of Michigan emphasized the scope of the threat and the need for vigilance, stating that multiple other deaths tied to sextortion schemes are under investigation in the Western District of Michigan.

Attorney General Merrick B. Garland praised the sentences, saying, “These defendants sexually exploited and extorted more than 100 victims, including at least eleven minors, resulting in the tragic death of a 17-year-old high school student. 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.”

The FBI Detroit Field Office also weighed in on the case, with Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson stating, “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. Spreading awareness on sextortion is a top priority of the FBI here in Michigan.”

The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of online exploitation and the importance of being cautious when interacting with others online. As U.S. Attorney Totten noted, “Please, please be careful. These devices can connect you to criminal networks around the world. Don’t assume people are who they say they are. Don’t share compromising images. And if you’re a victim, please reach out. There’s help, and law enforcement stands ready.”

The Ogoshi brothers were extradited to the United States in August 2023 and pleaded guilty in April. They will serve their 210-month sentences followed by five years of supervised release.