Online “romance” isn’t always what it seems. This week, a federal court sentenced three people for running a cruel scam that stole more than $86.000 from an elderly man and tragically contributed to his death.

One of the retiring teachers in Jonesborough, Tennessee, believed that he made a genuine connection over the internet. The scammers, Anagor (37), Onwumere (36), and Abdalkareem (29), first pretended to be a celebrity. Later, they claimed to be federal agents, saying he was under investigation and pressuring him to send money.

He sent five checks totaling $86.900. using almost all his savings and even taking a loan on his truck. When he realized the relationship and “investigation” were completely fake, the emotional toll was overwhelming. In his final messages, he wrote that he had “no more money” and feared legal trouble. On October 23. 2023. he died by suicide.

The three defendants were sentenced by a federal judge on December 2. 2025: Anagor was sentenced to 108 months in prison, Onwumere to 84 months, and Abdalkareem to 51 months. They were also made to pay restitution ($388.500) to the victims.

The plea deal confirmed each suspect’s involvement:

Abdalkareem: Conspiracy to commit wire fraud + 2 counts of money laundering support.

Onwumere: Conspiracy to commit wire fraud + aggravated stalking (linked to the victim’s death) + 2 money laundering charges.

Anagor: Conspiracy to commit wire fraud + aggravated stalking tied to the victim’s death + identity theft involvement.

Romance scams are not just about money; they are also based on trust and loneliness. The outcomes may be devastating. The results can be heartbreaking.

If an online partner is asking for money or keeping secrets:

Stop all contact.

Save messages and payment records.

Talk to someone you trust.

Contact your bank if you’ve sent money.

Report the scam and consider professional help to recover lost money from online romance scams.

Act fast. Awareness and small precautions can protect your money and your heart.