Ghanaian national Jamal Abubakari, popularly known as “Arrangement,” is asking a U.S. federal court for more time before his fraud case moves forward, with his lawyers arguing that a massive volume of newly released evidence has made the current timetable difficult to meet.
Abubakari and his brother, Kamal Abubakari, also known as “Lancaster,” are facing federal charges in the Northern District of Ohio connected to an alleged romance fraud and money-laundering scheme. U.S. prosecutors say the operation targeted mostly older Americans through dating websites and social media platforms.
According to recent court-related reporting, defense lawyers have asked for the upcoming proceedings to be pushed back by roughly 60 to 90 days so they can properly review evidence turned over by the government. The case had been set for an October 26, 2026 court date, but that schedule is now expected to change if the request is granted.
Lawyers Point to Evidence Problems
The defense says prosecutors recently produced a substantial amount of discovery material that requires detailed review before attorneys can adequately prepare their case.
Adding to the challenge, lawyers reportedly said there were repeated technical problems while attempting to transfer the evidence onto hard drives, further delaying their ability to fully examine the files.
The defense argues that additional time is necessary to analyze the material, discuss it with the defendants and provide effective legal representation.
Serious Federal Allegations
Federal prosecutors allege that between July 2024 and April 2026, Abubakari and others participated in a network that used fake online identities to build romantic relationships with victims before persuading them to send money.
Authorities say the broader alleged scheme involved more than 130 victims across the United States and losses exceeding $15 million. Abubakari faces charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering.
The request for more time does not determine guilt or innocence. Instead, it focuses on whether the defense should receive additional time to review the government’s evidence before the case proceeds.
For now, all eyes are on the federal court to see whether the judge grants the requested delay and sets a new timetable for one of the most closely watched fraud cases involving Ghanaian nationals in the United States.
