Socialite, Mona Faiz Montrage, popularly known as Hajia4Reall, addressed her involvement in the romance scam-related money laundering case, admitting guilt to charges amounting to $2 million.
Montrage voluntarily faced the charges in the Southern District of New York, acknowledging her role in an illicit scheme carefully executed by a West African criminal enterprise spanning from 2013 to 2019.
The criminal operation focused on exploiting vulnerable individuals through fake identities and deception, resulting in the fraudulent receipt of over $2 million.
In her statement, Montrage expressed remorse for her past actions, emphasizing that her guilty plea does not define her current self. She extended gratitude to her fans, family, and legal team, represented by Elena Fast, Esq., and Michael Perkins, Esq. of The Fast Law Firm, P.C., for their unwavering support during this challenging period
While recognizing the ongoing legal process, Montrage thanked those who stood by her, reiterating her commitment to closing this chapter in her life.
The caption attached to the statement said, “Lessons learned, we move…”
The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit, led by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mitzi Steiner and Kevin Mead, with sentencing to be determined by U.S. District Judge Paul A. Crotty.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation, and Damian Williams, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, commended the FBI’s work in this case.
