A Nigerian-born man, Oladapo Fadugba, who became a U.S. citizen, has been indicted in Florida for allegedly stealing $690,000 and lying to become a U.S. citizen.
According to a statement from Gregory Kehoe, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Florida, Fadugba is facing serious charges, including wire fraud, identity theft, and giving false information during his naturalization process.
Authorities say that between October 2020 and July 2023, Fadugba redirected $690,000 meant for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. This money was supposed to go to a local healthcare provider as reimbursement, but instead, it ended up in his own bank accounts.
To do this, he allegedly used someone else’s identity. After receiving the funds, he reportedly wrote checks to himself or his businesses, then moved the money into other accounts he controlled.
The indictment also says Fadugba lied under oath when he applied for U.S. citizenship. He claimed he hadn’t committed any crimes, which prosecutors now say was false.
It’s important to note that an indictment is only a formal charge. Fadugba is still presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. If convicted, he could spend up to 27 years in prison.
