Tag: IC3

[media-credit name=”Tom Williams/AP” width=1000 align=”center”][/media-credit]

A Nigerian man has been extradited to the United States to face charges in connection with an alleged sextortion scheme that authorities say led to the tragic suicide of a South Carolina teenager. The case highlights the growing dangers of online exploitation and underscores the urgent need for increased digital safety measures. According to federal prosecutors, twenty-two-year-old Samuel Ogoshi was transferred from Nigeria to the United States and is now facing charges related to the extortion of seventeen-year-old Jordan DeMay from Michigan. The indictment alleges that Ogoshi and his co-conspirators targeted teenage boys by posing as young women on social media, coercing them into sending explicit images, and then threatening to distribute the content unless a ransom was paid.

DeMay, a promising high school student, was allegedly one of the victims of this scheme. Investigators say that after being blackmailed, he tragically took his own life in March 2022. His case has drawn widespread attention to the rise of online sextortion, particularly among young males who often feel too ashamed or afraid to seek help. Law enforcement officials have emphasised the importance of awareness and education in preventing similar tragedies.

“Sextortion is a growing crime that preys on the vulnerabilities of young people”, said a spokesperson from the FBI. “We urge parents, educators, and communities to have open conversations about online safety.”

Ogoshi faces multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit sexual exploitation of a minor and cyberstalking. If convicted, he could face severe penalties under United States federal law. The extradition was made possible through collaboration between United States and Nigerian authorities, marking a significant step in international law enforcement efforts to combat cybercrimes. This case also serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with online interactions and the devastating consequences that can follow.

Authorities continue to encourage victims of sextortion to come forward, emphasising that help is available and that they are not alone. If you or someone you know is experiencing online exploitation, resources such as the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) are available for assistance.