In a harrowing case of cybercrime and its devastating consequences, 24-year-old Nigerian, Hassanbunhussein Abolore Lawal, has been extradited to the United States to face multiple charges in connection with a sextortion scheme that tragically led to the death of a teenage boy. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
The U.S. Department of Justice announced on Monday, January 27, 2025, that Lawal, hailing from Osun State, was extradited after a federal indictment accused him of extorting and harassing 17-year-old Gavin Guffey, the son of South Carolina representative Brandon Guffey, who tragically took his own life in July 2022.
How the Scheme Unfolded
Lawal allegedly posed as a young woman on social media, coercing the victim, Gavin, into sending compromising photos. Once the photos were obtained, he began to threaten Gavin, demanding money in exchange for his silence and threatening to ruin the teen’s reputation if his demands weren’t met. When the threats escalated, Lawal reportedly targeted Gavin’s family members with similar harassment.
The victim’s father, Rep. Brandon Guffey, has since been vocal about his family’s pain and the importance of holding predators accountable for their actions.
Charges Filed Against Lawal
Lawal is facing a five-count federal indictment, including:
- 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
Each count carries heavy penalties, with the child exploitation charge alone carrying a mandatory minimum 30-year sentence. If convicted, Lawal could face life in prison. He may also be required to pay restitution for the financial and emotional damage inflicted on the victim’s family.
Global Law Enforcement Effort
This case highlights the importance of international cooperation in the fight against cybercrime. Lawal was extradited to the U.S. after an intense investigation led by the FBI Columbia Field Office, with support from Nigerian law enforcement, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Nigerian Attorney General’s Office.
On January 24, 2025, FBI agents took custody of Lawal in Lagos, Nigeria, after successful extradition proceedings.
Officials Speak Out
U.S. Attorney Adair Ford Boroughs for the District of South Carolina emphasized the importance of bringing predators to justice, regardless of their location:
“We will not allow predators who target our children to hide behind a keyboard or across the ocean. Today, we honor Gavin’s life and remain committed to fighting sextortion by holding this defendant accountable.”
Steve Jensen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Columbia Field Office, also expressed his commitment to justice, stating:
“The defendant’s alleged actions are reprehensible, resulting in the tragic loss of a young man’s life. We remain steadfast in our mission to protect children and hold criminals accountable, no matter where they operate.”
Collaborative Justice
This case serves as a testament to the power of collaboration between U.S. and Nigerian authorities. Both countries worked tirelessly to ensure justice for Gavin and his family. The investigation included contributions from multiple U.S. agencies and local enforcement teams, including the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division and York County Sheriff’s Office.
A Call to Action
As the case moves forward, it serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers lurking online. Law enforcement officials urge parents, educators, and communities to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting children from cyber predators.
Gavin’s story is a heartbreaking example of the devastating impact of sextortion. His memory now stands as a beacon in the fight against this growing global menace.
Let’s continue to demand justice for Gavin and support the ongoing fight to protect vulnerable children everywhere.
