A U.S. court has sentenced 43-year-old Nigerian, Abiola Quadri, to 11 years and 3 months in federal prison for masterminding a $1.3 million COVID-19 fraud using stolen identities.
Quadri, a permanent U.S. resident, illegally claimed unemployment and disability benefits during the pandemic.
He used the proceeds to build Oyins International Resort — a sprawling 120-room complex with a nightclub and shopping mall — in Nigeria.
Authorities said Quadri submitted hundreds of bogus claims and withdrew funds from ATMs between 2021 and his 2024 arrest at Los Angeles airport while attempting to flee to Nigeria.
Court records revealed he sent $500,000 abroad, failed to declare assets, and stored over \$3.3 million worth of fake checks on his phone.
He also diverted public aid via his Altadena-based firm, Rock of Peace, supposedly catering to developmentally challenged children.
Quadri, who admitted to entering a sham marriage to gain U.S. residency, was convicted of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and fined \$35,000. He must also pay full restitution.
U.S. authorities have hailed the conviction as a major blow against pandemic-related fraud targeting taxpayer funds.
