A 24-year-old Nigerian man, Hassanbunhussein Abolore Lawal, has been extradited to the U.S. after being indicted on multiple charges related to a sextortion scheme that tragically led to the death of a South Carolina teenager.
The charges against Lawal include child exploitation resulting in death, production and distribution of child sexual abuse material, coercion and enticement of a minor, cyberstalking resulting in death, interstate threats with intent to extort, and aiding and abetting.
The indictment follows an investigation into the suicide of 17-year-old Gavin Guffey from Rock Hill, South Carolina, who fell victim to Lawal's alleged scheme.
Lawal reportedly posed as a young woman on social media to convince the teen to send compromising photos. Subsequently, Lawal harassed the teenager with threats to leak the photos unless money was sent to him. The same tactics were later used on members of Guffey's family.
U.S. Attorney Adair Ford Boroughs emphasized the commitment to holding predators who target children accountable, stating that the extradition and investigation were the result of extensive law enforcement coordination between the U.S. and Nigeria.
Guffey's father, South Carolina State Rep. Brandon Guffey, revealed that his son engaged with the perpetrator on Instagram, leading to the exchange of photos and demands for money. Tragically, Gavin took his own life after the extortion threats.
Special Agent Steve Jensen of the FBI Columbia Field Office condemned Lawal's actions as reprehensible and highlighted the agency's dedication to pursuing justice for victims of such crimes, especially when children are targeted.
If convicted, Lawal could face life imprisonment, with the charge of child exploitation resulting in death carrying a mandatory 30-year sentence. Additionally, he may be required to pay restitution for the losses incurred by the family due to his alleged scheme.
