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Three people in Tennessee have been sentenced for a romance scam that cost an elderly man $86,000.
James Whitmore
Senior Partner / Anti-Fraud Specialist
professional field
Every victim of fraud deserves professional help. Our goal is not only to protect their legal rights, but also to do our utmost to recover the defrauded funds and hold those responsible accountable.
Online romances aren't always as they seem. This week, a federal court convicted three men of cruel fraud who swindled over $86,000 from an elderly man, ultimately leading to his death.
A retired teacher in Jonesboro, Tennessee, believed he had found true love online. The three con artists, 37-year-old Anagor, 36-year-old Ongumele, and 29-year-old Abdulkarim, first impersonated a celebrity and then falsely claimed the man was under investigation, using this to blackmail him into sending money.
The man sent five checks totaling $86,900, nearly exhausting his savings and even mortgaging his truck. When he realized the relationship and the alleged "investigation" were a complete scam, he suffered a mental breakdown. In his final message, he wrote that he was "out of money" and feared legal trouble. On October 23, 2023, the man committed suicide.
The three defendants were sentenced by a federal judge on December 2, 2025: Anagor was sentenced to 108 months in prison, Aungumele to 84 months, and Abdulkarim to 51 months. They were also ordered to pay restitution to the victims ($388,500).
The plea agreement confirmed the charges against each suspect:
Abdulkarim: Conspiracy to commit wire fraud + two counts of aiding and abetting money laundering.
Aungumele: Conspiracy to commit wire fraud + serious stalking (related to the victim's death) + two counts of money laundering.
Anagor: Conspiracy to commit wire fraud + serious stalking related to the victim's death + involvement in identity theft.
Love scams are not just about money; they are also based on trust and loneliness. The consequences can be devastating and heartbreaking.
If your online partner asks for money or hides secrets:
Stop all contact immediately.
Save chat logs and payment records.
Talk to someone you trust.
If you have already sent money, contact your bank.
Report the scam and consider seeking professional help to recover the money you lost in an online romance scam.
Act quickly. Being vigilant and taking some simple precautions can protect your money and feelings.
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