The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has secured the conviction of Dennis Tamarakuro, also known as Keisha Reynolds, over cybercrime that cost a United States-based charity organization more than $71,000.
The verdict was delivered by Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Abuja, after Tamarakuro admitted guilt to a one-count charge of internet fraud. The case revealed that he impersonated a U.S. investor, deceived victims, and diverted funds belonging to Pregnancy Support Network, an NGO supporting maternal health.
Investigations by the EFCC, supported by intelligence from the Jackson Township Police Department in the U.S., confirmed that the stolen funds were laundered through intermediaries before being converted into cryptocurrency. The money was traced to a Bybit wallet belonging to Tamarakuro. He later withdrew part of it through Busha, another crypto exchange in Nigeria.
According to EFCC investigator Ogunjobi Olalekan, a total of $42,278 was successfully recovered, while the rest of the stolen funds were blocked by a U.S. bank. Exhibits presented in court included Tamarakuro’s voluntary statement and communications with cryptocurrency platforms.
During the hearing, his lawyer pleaded for leniency, describing him as a first-time offender, a father, and a caregiver. Justice Nwite, however, sentenced him to one year imprisonment, with an option of a ₦1 million fine. The judge also ordered that all recovered funds be returned to the victim organization and directed the convict to sign an affidavit of good conduct.
