Romance Scam Cost Seniors $9 Million, Three Admit

More than $9 million in cash left the pockets of older Americans between July 2024 and April 2026. The money flowed to a group of fraudsters who built fake relationships with victims on dating sites and social media platforms. Three members of this group have now admitted to their roles in the scheme.

The US attorney's office for the northern district of Ohio announced the guilty pleas on Monday. Jamal Abubakari and Kamal Abubakari, twin brothers from Ghana, both aged 22, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Amanda Joy Opoku-Boachie, 53, of Kula, Hawaii, also entered a guilty plea. The trio worked with other co-conspirators to run the operation.

The fraud targeted more than 130 victims in 25 states, as well as individuals in Germany and Austria. Prosecutors said the defendants created fake personas to establish close, personal relationships that were often romantic in nature. They used artificial intelligence-driven video platforms to interact with victims under fictitious female identities. Once trust was built, the scammers told victims they needed money for medical emergencies, investment opportunities, or travel fees to visit them in person.

Victims wired the requested sums to bank accounts controlled by the conspiracy members. Portions of the funds were then sent to co-conspirators in Ghana and other locations. The justice department noted that victims are left with nothing to sustain their lives after a lifetime of work and saving. The department added that victims feel ashamed and have lost trust in other people.

Under the plea agreement, the three defendants agreed to forfeit jewelry seized by investigators during their arrests. The items include luxury timepieces, high-end watches, rings, chains, medallions, and earrings. Each defendant faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Other alleged co-conspirators are currently awaiting extradition from Ghana.

The government seized assets in Ghana estimated to be worth more than $3 million. These assets include a Lamborghini, a Tesla Cybertruck, a Mercedes-Benz, and a BMW. Sentencing for the Abubakari brothers is scheduled for February 9, 2027. Opoku-Boachie is due to be sentenced the following day, on February 10, 2027.