Ghanaian musician and socialite Hajia4Reall, born Mona Faiz Montrage, is set to face sentencing today, 28th June 2024, in a US court over internet fraud charges to which she has pleaded guilty.
The socialite’s legal team has requested a three-month sentence, emphasising her role as a single mother and the imperative presence in her child’s life. However, the US Attorney’s Office has argued for the entire 37-month term, citing similar cases and stressing the need for a proper deterrent.
Hajia4Reall has been charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, one count of money laundering conspiracy, and one count of money laundering. Additionally, she faces one count of receipt of stolen money, which carries a potential 10-year prison sentence, and conspiracy to receive stolen cash, carrying a five-year jail term.
Reports suggest that Hajia4Reall was involved in a $2 million romance scam. She allegedly communicated with one of her victims multiple times and received wire transfers totalling $89,000, purportedly to fund her father’s farm. Her arrest in the United Kingdom led to her extradition to the United States to face these charges.
The US Attorney’s Office has vehemently opposed a reduced sentence, arguing that it would be unfair and fail to serve as an effective deterrent. They have cited similar cases supporting their position for the 37-month term.
As the court prepares to deliver its sentence, all eyes are on the proceedings, with significant implications for Hajia4Reall’s future and its broader message regarding internet fraud.
