Nigerian brothers sentenced to 17.5 years in sextortion in connection with Michigan teenager's suicide

The verdict was announced Thursday for two Nigerian brothers accused in a sexual extortion case that resulted in a Marquette teenager committing suicide.

According to officials, both men will face more than 17 years in prison for their role in the online conspiracy.

Jordan Demay, 17, sent sexually explicit images on Instagram to a person he thought was a girl.

When he couldn't pay the crooks the $1,000 they asked him to keep the photos secret, he committed suicide.

Local 4 spoke to his mother after the hearing on Thursday (September 5).

When Demay's mother, Jennifer Buta, was asked about her reaction to the verdict, she said, “Today was truly a milestone. And that someone is being held accountable for what was done to Jordan. But no matter what sentence the judge would have imposed on these brothers, it doesn't change my life that Jordan is not coming back. But they have to serve their sentence for what they did to Jordan.”

Samson and Samuel Ogoshi both pleaded guilty in April to conspiracy to sexually exploit a minor.

On Thursday, the men were sentenced to 17.5 years in prison. It is the first time that criminals from Nigeria have been tracked down, charged and extradited to the United States to face prosecution.

Demay's father spoke to the media shortly after the hearing.

“This is a message that the United States will not allow this to happen,” John said. “The message to the evildoers on the other side of the world is that if they think they can hide behind the waters of the ocean, it's over. And we will do everything we can to hold you accountable if you participate in these things.”

Both parents said now is the time to take action to protect our children and our communities.

“I think parents need to educate themselves on how social media works and make them understand that this is a scam and no one is safe,” Buta said. “They need to be open with their children about the fact that if someone asks them for photos or money, they need to go to an adult for help. Also, these children are the victims. If they are targeted, they should not be ashamed to come forward. And say, 'This is the problem with me. Can you please help me?'”

Jordan's case is ongoing, and another person is awaiting extradition in Nigeria to the United States to face charges.

In the US, five people were involved, four in Georgia and one in AlabamaTheir first court hearings will take place later this year.