Newton Ofioritse Jemide, a 47-year-old Nigerian national, has pleaded guilty to a federal charge of wire fraud conspiracy. The plea follows his extradition from France and is related to his involvement in a scheme aimed at fraudulently obtaining federal benefits.
Kelly O. Hayes, United States Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the plea alongside officials from several agencies involved in the investigation. "Mr. Jemide and his co-conspirators’ greed and utter disregard for the suffering of those who need national emergency assistance, by stealing from the government, will not be tolerated," said United States Attorney Hayes.
The fraudulent activities took place during 2016 and 2017 when Jemide directed accomplices in the U.S. to buy Green Dot Debit Cards. These cards were then registered with stolen personal information obtained by co-conspirators in Nigeria. Following natural disasters like Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, Maria, and California wildfires in 2017, Jemide used this stolen data to apply for FEMA benefits online.
"DHS-OIG is grateful for our continued partnership with our law enforcement partners as we continue fighting waste, fraud, and abuse," stated Joseph V. Cuffari from DHS.
The scheme led to FEMA disbursing $500 per claim onto these debit cards resulting in a total of at least $8 million being fraudulently obtained. The funds were deposited using multiple stolen identities distinct from those used to register the cards.
SAC McCool highlighted that bringing such criminals to justice prevents further victimization of taxpayers: "This investigation underscores the Secret Service’s global reach and steadfast commitment."
In addition to FEMA claims, false applications were submitted for Social Security benefits and IRS tax refunds using stolen identities. Acting SAC Lawlor emphasized that misuse of SSA's e-Services will not be tolerated: "Our office will continue to investigate those who abuse SSA programs."
Jemide faces up to 30 years in federal prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud with sentencing scheduled on July 1st before Judge Deborah K. Chasanow.
U.S Attorney Hayes commended all involved agencies for their work leading up to this prosecution while also thanking international partners aiding Jemide's extradition process.
