Singer and rapper Sean Kingston and his mother, Janice Turner, have been found guilty on all charges in a federal luxury fraud case. The verdict was announced Friday evening, ending a high-profile trial that revealed how the duo scammed businesses to obtain luxury goods without paying.
The jury took just three hours to reach its decision.
What Were They Convicted Of?
Both Kingston and Turner were convicted of:
- One count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud
- Four counts of wire fraud
Each charge carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
Turner’s Immediate Arrest
Janice Turner was taken into custody immediately after the verdict. The judge said she played a central role in the scheme, calling her the “operator, fixer, and accountant.”
As Turner was being led out of the courtroom, she blew a kiss to her daughter, who replied by mouthing, “I love you.“
Sean Kingston on House Arrest
Kingston, whose real name is Kisean Anderson, was placed under house arrest until his sentencing on July 11.
The judge denied Kingston’s request to travel to Texas for a scheduled performance, saying firmly:
“He’s not going to Texas.”
Kingston’s lawyer cited his heart condition and asthma in requesting leniency. His sister is posting $200,000, and his aunt is offering her home as collateral for his release.
How the Fraud Scheme Worked
Prosecutors called Kingston and Turner “masters of deception and fraud.” According to the evidence:
- They used fake wire transfer receipts to trick businesses
- They obtained a luxury SUV, expensive jewelry, watches, and a wall-sized TV without paying
- A key text message from Kingston to Turner read: “I told you to make [a] fake receipt,” followed by, “so it [looks] like the transfer will be there in a couple [of] days.”
In May 2024, authorities raided Kingston’s home in Southwest Ranches, Florida as part of the investigation.
Defense Arguments
During the trial, Turner’s lawyer argued that the alleged victims were fraudsters themselves. Kingston’s attorney tried to separate his fame from his finances, saying:
“He’s a soft guy who grew up poor and rose to fame overnight, with no idea how to run a business or how much money is in his bank account.”
What’s Next?
Sentencing is scheduled for Friday, July 11:
- Janice Turner: 9:00 a.m.
- Sean Kingston: 11:00 a.m.
In addition to these federal charges, the two also face similar state charges, which could lead to even more legal trouble.
Kingston’s Career
Sean Kingston, born in Jamaica, shot to fame with his 2007 chart-topping hit “Beautiful Girls”. He later teamed up with Justin Bieber on the hit song “Eenie Meenie.” His music career brought him fame, but his recent legal problems have now taken centre stage.
This case shows how even famous celebrities are not above the law. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness of fraud crimes, especially when it involves high-value items and deliberate deception. With sentencing just weeks away, both Sean Kingston and his mother face a long legal road ahead.