Man sentenced to prison for defrauding 12 victims

ORANJESTAD – A man identified as A.K.M. has been sentenced to 12 months in prison, with six months suspended, after being convicted of defrauding 12 people between August 2025 and January 2026. He must also remain under probation supervision and undergo treatment during a three-year probation period. According to the Public Prosecution Service, A.K.M. persuaded multiple victims to hand over money or incur expenses under false pretenses. He falsely claimed to be renting apartments, selling cars, arranging jobs or having connections with a notary. In total, 12 people were allegedly deceived. A.K.M. did not appear in court for Friday's hearing, choosing instead to remain at the Aruba Correctional Institution (KIA). His attorney represented him during the proceedings.

Prosecutors requested a 12-month prison sentence, with six months suspended, noting that A.K.M. had previously been convicted of similar offenses. They also considered a psychological evaluation indicating that he suffers from mental health problems requiring treatment, although this had not prevented him from committing new fraud.

In its ruling, the Court found A.K.M. guilty of fraud and imposed the sentence requested by the prosecution. The judge took into account the psychological report, which concluded that the defendant's responsibility for his actions was diminished, as well as his previous conviction for similar crimes.  

Of the 12 compensation claims filed by victims, 10 were granted in whole or in part. Two claims were rejected because the court found insufficient evidence to support those specific allegations. The court also ordered A.K.M. to compensate the victims. Failure to comply with the compensation order could result in additional imprisonment.