Nigerian Kenneth Godwin Indicted for Wire Fraud in U.S.

Kenneth Godwin, a Nigerian man, has been indicted by a federal grand jury for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and unauthorized access to protected computers, with charges announced by U.S. District Attorney Ron Parson.

The indictment, dated March 2026, alleges that Godwin was involved in a fraudulent scheme targeting the Prairie Wind Casino Hotel in Pine Ridge, South Dakota, while he was believed to be residing in Nigeria. The scheme aimed to embezzle funds from the casino to enrich those involved.

If convicted, Godwin faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, along with possible restitution. Parson commended the investigative efforts of the FBI, emphasizing their commitment to dismantling criminal enterprises that commit fraud against U.S. citizens.

The case exemplifies the ongoing issues related to international business email compromise schemes, which have caused significant financial losses.