In a landmark decision, Judge John F. Heil III of the United States District Court has overturned an earlier ruling granting bail to Bolanle Bombata, popularly known as “Bobo Chicago.”
The 25-year-old Nigerian national, facing allegations of orchestrating a $2.8 million fraud scheme, will remain in custody pending trial after FBI prosecutors successfully argued he posed a significant flight risk.
On November 26, Magistrate Judge Beth Jantz initially granted bail to Bombata, a decision the U.S. government swiftly challenged. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) appealed, presenting compelling evidence that Bombata could abscond, potentially fleeing to Nigeria, where his parents hold nationality.
Criminal History and Evidence
Prosecutors highlighted Bombata’s extensive criminal history, which includes:
- A 2020 arrest for unlawful gun possession in Chicago, Illinois, during which $17,000 in cash, fraudulent debit and credit cards, and fake checks were discovered.
- Providing false identification and evading law enforcement earlier in 2024.
Further investigations revealed Bombata lied during his pre-trial interview, claiming he had never left the United States. However, prosecutors presented travel records showing he had visited the UK, Ukraine, Germany, and Colombia—trips allegedly connected to fraudulent activities.
A cooperating informant further corroborated Bombata’s involvement in international scams, providing crucial testimony about his travel history and fraudulent operations.
FBI Concerns
Despite surrendering his passport, the FBI argued that Bombata’s ability to obtain false identification posed a serious risk of escape. The agency’s filings emphasized his dishonesty and potential to flee prosecution, citing his ties to Nigeria and other countries as reasons for concern.
“The government argues that Defendant’s dishonesty regarding travel during the pre-trial services interview does not bode well for his willingness to comply with conditions if released,” stated court documents obtained by Peoples Gazette.
Defense Arguments
Bombata’s lawyer attempted to downplay the omissions, describing them as unintentional. However, the court found the government’s evidence too compelling to disregard.
Judge Heil reversed the earlier order granting bail, siding with the government’s position. “Accordingly, defendant will be detained pending trial,” the judge ruled, reinforcing that Bombata’s release posed an unacceptable risk to justice.
Bobo Chicago will remain in custody as his trial progresses, marking a significant win for law enforcement in their efforts to combat international fraud and uphold accountability. The decision underscores the judicial system’s commitment to ensuring that accused individuals face trial, particularly in cases involving substantial evidence of deceit and criminal intent.