Although Smyth’s attorney declined to comment on the ruling, the judge’s decision paves the way for her extradition to the United Kingdom to face charges related to fraud and theft. Smyth allegedly scammed victims out of over $170,000 in Northern Ireland from 2008 to 2010, and faces four counts of fraud and theft under U.K. law. The extradition request was made by authorities overseas who issued arrest warrants for Smyth earlier this decade.
The case of Marianne Smyth has drawn comparisons to that of Anna Sorokin, a scammer who impersonated a German heiress to fund her lavish lifestyle. Smyth, who portrayed herself as an Irish heiress, a witch, and a psychic, targeted victims in a similar manner. One of her victims, Johnathan Walton, a podcaster, spoke out about Smyth’s actions and helped gather evidence against her. Smyth’s elaborate schemes included posing as a cancer patient and fabricating connections to Hollywood celebrities like Jennifer Aniston.
Despite Smyth’s claims of Irish descent, she is actually American and was arrested in Maine in February after evading capture for several years. Her story unraveled when Walton discovered her criminal history and exposed her fraudulent activities on his podcast. Smyth’s extradition could mark the end of a long and bizarre saga involving multiple victims who fell prey to her deceitful practices. With the judge’s ruling, Smyth will remain in custody awaiting a final decision on extradition by Secretary of State Antony Blinken.
The ruling by U.S. Magistrate Judge John Nivison concluded that there is sufficient evidence to support Smyth’s extradition, citing her interactions and transactions with victims as evidence of fraud and theft. Smyth’s alleged crimes spanned several years and involved promises of investments and property sales that never materialized. The decision to extradite her to the U.K. reflects a step towards accountability for Smyth and justice for her victims who have spoken out against her actions.
As the legal proceedings continue, Smyth’s fate lies in the hands of the U.S. Marshals Service and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who will ultimately decide whether she will be extradited to face charges in the United Kingdom. The case highlights the dangers of falling prey to elaborate scams and the importance of holding scammers like Smyth accountable for their actions. The extradition of Smyth could serve as a warning to others engaging in fraudulent activities and bring closure to the victims who have been impacted by her deceit.
