GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — U.S. Attorney Mark Totten and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) announced charges against three Nigerian men in a worldwide sextortion ring Wednesday morning.
The suspects — identified as 22-year-old Samuel Ogoshi, 20-year-old Samson Ogoshi and 19-year-old Ezekiel Robert — were charged with conspiracy to sexually exploit minors and conspiracy to produce child porn, Totten says.
We’re told Samuel was also charged with sexual exploitation and attempted sexual exploiting a minor resulting in death.
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The men allegedly targeted more than 100 victims, who federal attorneys say range from adults to minors. This was reportedly accomplished by purchasing hacked social media accounts and using them to lure victims into sexually explicit conversations.
Totten explains the men convinced their victims to send images of themselves, which the suspects allegedly used as blackmail.
Had victims not complied, the images would have been made public to friends and family, according to Totten.
Officials say an investigation was launched after 17-year-old Jordan DeMay took his own life last year as a result of being exploited.
Totten notes the names of victims are normally withheld in formal indictments but DeMay’s identity was released at his family’s request.
“Sextortion is a horrible crime that can leave especially younger victims feeling ashamed with nowhere to turn,” says Totten. “My heart goes out to the family of Jordan DeMay. Nothing can bring Jordan back, but my office is committed to securing justice and, alongside Jordan’s family, sending an urgent warning so others can protect themselves and their families. We will travel the world to hold the perpetrators of these crimes accountable.”
DeMay’s family offered comments following Wednesday’s announcement.
“Our focus going forward is to bring more awareness to children, young adults, and parents. Our family has forever been changed by this heinous crime and our objective is to prevent another individual from being victimized,” the family states. “Kids, teenagers, and even adults can be a target of sextortion. We urge you to have discussions about this and have a plan for your children to reach out if it does happen to them.”
The suspects are currently being extradited, and federal attorneys say the Nigerian government is cooperating with the investigation.
For those who seek mental health help or are considering suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org
