Darlington Akporugo, a 47-year-old Nigerian man, has pleaded guilty to charges of wire fraud and conspiracy in connection with a nationwide romance scam. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas, led by Nicholas J. Ganjei, confirmed that Akporugo played a pivotal role in an elaborate scheme targeting victims from multiple states, including Chicago and Kentucky.
According to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Akporugo was part of a group that manipulated individuals into fraudulent online relationships, eventually convincing them to transfer money to bank accounts under his control. The scam primarily targeted elderly and retired individuals, many of whom lost their life savings.
Akporugo admitted to his involvement in wire fraud and mail fraud, as well as aiding and abetting the crime. The scheme affected more than 25 victims, and Akporugo’s actions caused financial damages amounting to over $3 million.
“This case highlights how fraudsters prey on vulnerable individuals, often exploiting their loneliness or grief to steal from them,” said Chad Plantz, Special Agent in Charge of ICE Homeland Security Investigations. “Thanks to the courage of the victims who came forward, and the collaborative work of law enforcement, we were able to bring these criminals to justice.”
Akporugo used fake online identities to establish relationships with victims via platforms like Facebook. He built trust over time, before convincing them to wire money or deposit funds into accounts he controlled. In some cases, victims were also coerced into taking out credit lines or purchasing expensive items for Akporugo’s personal use, including a luxury car. Much of the stolen money was sent overseas.
The scheme came to light after a multi-year investigation by ICE, which identified over 25 victims, many of whom were elderly or widowed. As part of his plea, Akporugo acknowledged that he was one of the central players in this fraudulent operation.
Akporugo will be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Charles Eskridge on June 6. He faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000. He will remain in custody until his sentencing.
The case also gained attention in May 2024 when Akporugo and his fiancée, Jasmin Sood, were arrested just days before their planned wedding. The couple allegedly orchestrated the scam over seven years, using social media and dating platforms to prey on vulnerable widows. Authorities continue to investigate the full scope of the operation.
U.S. Attorney Ganjei encouraged others who may have been victims of similar schemes to come forward, emphasizing that reporting fraud is vital in preventing future crimes.
