Georgia Man Sentenced for Romance Scam Targeting Elderly in Multiple States

Badetito O. Obafemi, a 42-year-old man from Georgia, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for his role in an online romance scam that defrauded elderly victims in Missouri, Minnesota, and New Jersey. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering and was ordered to pay $311,520 in restitution. The scam involved establishing online relationships with victims, after which Obafemi and his co-conspirators requested money under false pretenses, including for business and medical expenses. One victim from Taney County, Missouri, lost approximately $27,460 due to the scheme, with further attempts made to solicit an additional $40,000. Obafemi coordinated the movement of funds and received money through his personal accounts and those of businesses he owned. This case highlights ongoing concerns regarding scams targeting vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly.