Hajia 4Reall Gets Over A Year Jail Term In U.S. Prison For Romance Scam
Influencer Mona Faiz Montrage, also known as Hajia 4reall, from Ghana was given a one-year and one-day prison sentence for her involvement in multiple romance scams and her money laundering activities.
Under the direction of U.S. District Judge J. Paul Oetken, the sentence was given in New York.
The well-known social media user Montrage was detained in the UK on November 10, 2022, and extradited to the US on May 12, 2023.
One of the counts against her was conspiracy to accept stolen property, which is punishable by up to five years in prison.
On February 21, 2024, Montrage entered a guilty plea to these charges in front of U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah L. Cave.
Hajia 4reall was involved in romance scams that preyed on elderly people who were deemed fragile, offering them marriage as a reward before stealing their money.
A total of thirty-two victims lost about $1.4 million over the course of six years. Montrage opened several bank accounts in her name and used them to launder the money.
Judge Oetken sentenced Montrage to one year and one day in prison, with potential for “good time” credit. She must also pay $2,164,758.41 in forfeiture and restitution. Montrage’s defense requested and received approval for her immediate return to Ghana after release to avoid ICE detention.
The case has drawn significant attention in Ghana. The U.S. Attorney’s Office stressed the need for deterrence. Montrage’s sentencing highlights the serious consequences of romance scams and the importance of integrity.
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