In a significant move against transnational cybercrime, a United States court has sentenced 25-year-old Nigerian, Samuel Olasunkanmi Abiodun, to five years in prison for his role in a sextortion and wire fraud conspiracy that resulted in the death of a young American teenager.
U.S. District Judge Joel H. Slomsky delivered the sentence in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Following the ruling, U.S. Attorney David Metcalf made the announcement on Wednesday, underscoring the devastating impact of the scheme on the victim and his family. He also emphasized the Justice Department’s resolve to pursue those who exploit others online, regardless of where they operate.
Sextortion Scheme Ends in Tragedy
According to prosecutors, Abiodun was a key player in a sophisticated cybercriminal ring that targeted vulnerable teenagers online. The group used fake identities to deceive victims into sharing explicit content, which they later used to blackmail them. Tragically, this malicious scheme led one young victim to take his own life after enduring relentless threats and psychological torment.
In December 2024, Abiodun pleaded guilty to charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. Investigators revealed that he served as the network’s financial conduit, helping funnel extorted funds across international borders.
Meanwhile, his co-conspirator, 27-year-old Imoleayo Samuel Aina—known online as “Alice Dave”—also played a central role in the sextortion ring. In May 2025, Aina pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including cyberstalking, threatening to harm reputations, receiving extortion proceeds, and wire fraud. His sentencing is scheduled for August 11, and he could face a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
A third accomplice, 25-year-old Afeez Olatunji Adewale, has also been charged with money laundering conspiracy and wire fraud. However, he remains in Nigeria, awaiting extradition to face trial in the United States.
Global Collaboration Leads to Arrest and Extradition
U.S. authorities issued a criminal complaint and arrest warrant for Abiodun and Aina, prompting Nigerian law enforcement to take swift action. In July 2024, both suspects were arrested in Nigeria. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), in collaboration with the FBI Legal Attaché in Abuja and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, oversaw their successful extradition to the United States.
The Nigerian government played a crucial role in the operation. Key institutions such as the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, the Federal Ministry of Justice’s International Criminal Justice Cooperation Department, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) all provided essential support in the legal transfer of the suspects.
Authorities Condemn the Crimes
During the sentencing, U.S. Attorney David Metcalf condemned the devastating impact of the crime:
“As the financial middleman, Abiodun played a central role in this sextortion scheme, which traumatized the victim and left his family shattered. These scammers only care about extorting money from scared and vulnerable individuals, with no thought for the emotional destruction they leave behind.”
He added that this case should serve as a warning to other cybercriminals operating overseas:
“The Department of Justice has a long reach. If you target American citizens with schemes like these, you could end up in a U.S. prison.”
Echoing this sentiment, Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Philadelphia Division, emphasized the international scope of the operation:
“This sentencing sends a powerful message. Anyone who engages in sextortion will face justice—no matter where they try to hide. The FBI, along with our domestic and international partners, remains fully committed to protecting our communities—especially our youth—from predatory criminals.”
Local Police Praise Federal Collaboration
Chief Patrick Molloy of the Abington Township Police Department, where the investigation began, also praised the collaborative efforts that made the arrests and prosecution possible. He acknowledged the limitations local departments face when pursuing suspects beyond U.S. borders:
“We rely on the FBI and federal law enforcement to expand investigations internationally, and that’s exactly what happened in this case. We are deeply grateful to the federal agents and prosecutors who worked tirelessly to ensure justice.”
He added that the outcome sends a strong warning to those who prey on the vulnerable:
“This case should make it clear that we will pursue justice across borders—especially in cases involving severe consequences. This could have been any parent’s child. While this prosecution may bring some relief, the pain and loss this family suffers will never fully fade.”
Case Represents Broader Effort to Combat Global Cybercrime
The investigation was conducted jointly by the FBI and the Abington Township Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Brown. The Justice Department hailed the case as a successful example of international cooperation in holding cybercriminals accountable.
As authorities prepare to sentence Aina and work toward Adewale’s extradition, they stress that these efforts represent just one part of a broader campaign to combat sextortion and other cyber-based exploitation.
While Abiodun’s conviction may bring partial closure, law enforcement officials and advocates continue to emphasize the need for vigilance, education, and stronger digital protections for young people. The case stands as a sobering reminder of how online manipulation can spiral into real-life tragedy—and how global justice systems must work together to stop it.
