A Nigerian national has pleaded guilty to orchestrating a transnational inheritance fraud scheme that targeted elderly and vulnerable individuals across the United States. The investigation, involving multiple federal agencies such as U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Consumer Protection Branch, uncovered the fraudulent activities.
"Transnational fraud schemes thrive in the shadows, turning illicit gains into a facade of legitimacy, especially those involving seniors or other vulnerable people," stated Ray Rede, ICE Homeland Security Investigations Arizona acting Special Agent in Charge. He emphasized the commitment of HSI and law enforcement partners to bring justice to those who exploit others for personal gain.
Court documents reveal that Ehis Lawrence Akhimie, 41, was part of a group that sent deceptive letters to elderly victims in the U.S., falsely claiming they were entitled to multimillion-dollar inheritances from deceased overseas relatives. Victims were misled into sending money for supposed fees and taxes. Akhimie admitted to defrauding over $6 million from more than 400 victims.
"The Justice Department’s Consumer Protection Branch will continue to pursue, prosecute and bring to justice transnational criminals responsible for defrauding U.S. consumers," said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate. He highlighted international collaboration's critical role in tackling such crimes.
Bladismir Rojo, acting Postal Inspector in Charge for the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Miami Division, reiterated their commitment to protecting American consumers from transnational criminal organizations.
On June 17, Akhimie pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and faces up to 20 years' imprisonment. This case is linked to an earlier indictment where seven co-conspirators from various countries were convicted and sentenced.
Senior Trial Attorney Phil Toomajian and Trial Attorney Josh Rothman are prosecuting the case with assistance from several international authorities.
Victims aged 60 or older can seek help through the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). The hotline offers personalized support and resources for reporting fraud cases.
Further information on elder protection efforts is available on the Department of Justice's Elder Justice Initiative web page.
