Entertainment commentator Ola Michael has praised Ghanaian socialite and actress “Hajia4Real,” whose real name is Mona Faiz Montrage, for her astute legal strategies following her sentencing in the U.S. for her role in a $2 million romance scam.
Hajia4Real was extradited from the UK and sentenced to one year and one day in a U.S. prison. Initially, she faced a possible five-year sentence after pleading guilty in February 2024. However, the judge showed leniency, considering her cooperation, admission of guilt, and promise to repay the victims as key factors.
During an appearance on UTV’s United Showbiz on June 29, 2024, Ola Michael emphasized how Hajia4Real’s cooperation with the court and her strategic choice of skilled lawyers helped her secure a relatively light sentence.
“Don’t underestimate her; she’s smart. She chose an intelligent lawyer and secured the best possible outcome,” Michael remarked, highlighting the strategic acumen of Hajia4Real’s legal team. “She didn’t burden the court. She admitted guilt over some charges but wasn’t aware of all the processes involved. She also agreed to compensate the victims.”
Michael noted that similar cases typically resulted in sentences ranging from 36 to 42 months. Hajia4Real’s 12-month and one-day sentence, he argued, was a testament to her effective legal strategy. He also mentioned that her display of remorse, including tears over the potential impact of a heavy sentence on her child, likely swayed the court.
“I heard she even cried in court because she has a child, and a long sentence would affect the child. She showed remorse. Before the sentencing, people testified on her behalf, vouching for her character,” he said.
According to Michael, Hajia4Real’s conduct during her trial and her legal team’s guidance were crucial in securing the lenient sentence. “Her lawyers advised her well, and their strategy worked. Whoever advised her knew how to handle the situation,” he added.
Hajia4Real’s lawyers also expressed relief over the sentencing. Despite their request for a three-month prison term, the judge sentenced her to one year and one day, concluding the case of U.S. v. Mona Montrage, 22 Cr 617 (JPO).
