A US court sentenced Leslie Chinedu Mba, a 40-year-old Nigerian, to 19 years in federal prison. Authorities convicted him for his role in a $4 million romance scam and business email compromise scheme. Additionally, the court ordered his deportation after the term.
The Guilty Plea
Mba pleaded guilty on December 4, 2025, to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and false statements in immigration documents. Meanwhile U.S. District Judge David Hittner imposed 228 months of imprisonment. Mba resided illegally in Houston at the time.
Details of the Scam
Scammers targeted victims through online romance schemes and hacked business emails. They defrauded individuals of over $4 million. Moreover Mba attempted multiple fraudulent marriages to gain US residency after officials denied his initial application.
Co-Conspirators
Four others pleaded guilty in the case. Grace Morisho, Rodgers Kadikilo, Kristin Smith, and Alexandra Golovko, all from Houston, participated. However the court focused on Mba’s leadership role.
Official Statements
Nicholas J. Ganjei, the U.S. Attorney, announced the sentence. He stated, “Now, Mba has prison to look forward to, followed by a one-way ticket back to Nigeria.” Meanwhile, prosecutors highlighted the $4 million loss to victims.
Broader Implications
The case exposed vulnerabilities in online fraud. Furthermore it underscored efforts to combat immigration fraud. Authorities continued investigations into similar schemes.
Next Steps
Mba began serving his sentence immediately. Immigration officials prepared for his removal post-incarceration. This conviction marked a significant win against transnational scams.
