Palmetto State News

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham expressed his reaction following the extradition of a Nigerian man to the United States, who has been charged in connection with a sextortion scheme that led to the suicide of 17-year-old Gavin Guffey from Rock Hill, South Carolina.

Graham stated, "I am very pleased that the Nigerian man charged with ‘sextorting’ Gavin Guffey has been extradited back to the United States to stand trial. Gavin tragically committed suicide as a result of this sextortion scheme, and I’m grateful to the federal and state law enforcement agencies who tracked down the perpetrator of this terrible crime."

The senator mentioned his meeting with Gavin’s father, South Carolina State Representative Brandon Guffey, during a Senate Judiciary Committee session where Big Tech CEOs were questioned about online child protection measures. "I know Brandon and his entire family are equally pleased that the alleged perpetrator will face justice," Graham added.

Graham highlighted concerns over social media platforms in cases involving young individuals being extorted after taking explicit photos. He emphasized accountability for these companies, stating they should be subject to liability for allowing such behavior. "The number of suicides related to this issue is heartbreaking," he said.

He further urged Congress to take action against social media companies: "It is long past time for Congress to stand up to these social media companies and insist they do better. I will not relent."

Background information provided notes that Graham met with Representative Brandon Guffey in January 2024 and later questioned four social media company CEOs at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing regarding Gavin’s case.

The Nigerian individual, identified as Hassanbunhussein Abolore Lawal, faces charges including child exploitation resulting in death, production and distribution of child sexual abuse material, coercion and enticement of a minor, cyberstalking resulting in death, and interstate threats with intent to extort.

This press release was issued by the U.S. Attorney for South Carolina’s office.