Marianne Smyth extradited for posing as Irish heiress and swindling victims

A woman accused of defrauding multiple victims in the U.S. by posing as an Irish heiress and swindling over $170,000 from them has been extradited to the United Kingdom. Marianne Smyth, also known for portraying herself as a witch, psychic, and associate of Hollywood celebrities, allegedly committed the crimes in Northern Ireland between 2008 and 2010.

Following a ruling by a U.S. magistrate judge in Maine, Smyth was deemed eligible for extradition earlier this year. The U.S. Department of Justice confirmed the extradition, directing inquiries to authorities in Northern Ireland. Smyth's attorney has not yet responded to requests for comment.

Reports indicate that Smyth deceived victims by promising to invest their money and selling a property that she never delivered. Among her victims was podcaster Johnathan Walton, who publicly exposed her fraudulent activities. Arrest warrants were issued for Smyth in Northern Ireland, leading to her apprehension in Maine in February.

Comparisons have been drawn between Smyth and Anna Sorokin, who posed as a wealthy German heiress in New York City to fund an extravagant lifestyle. Sorokin, also known as Anna Delvey, was convicted in 2019 for swindling $275,000 from banks and individuals to finance her lavish living.

It is crucial to remain vigilant and cautious when dealing with individuals promising lucrative investments or extravagant lifestyles. Cases like Marianne Smyth and Anna Sorokin serve as reminders to verify the authenticity of individuals before engaging in financial transactions. By staying informed and aware, individuals can protect themselves from falling victim to fraudulent schemes.