In an unusual turn of events that began in 2016, Prince Anderson, then 25 years old and working for a phone scam operation in Ghana, quit his illicit trade after an encounter with one of his intended "victims." Stephen Ira Adams, an insurance company owner in Louisiana, not only refused to be scammed but offered Anderson a path to a better life.
Adams received a call from Anderson requesting gift card purchases. Despite recognizing the caller as a scammer, Adams chose to stay on the line. He sensed desperation in Anderson's voice, prompting him to listen rather than hang up.
Anderson was the primary provider for his impoverished family in Ghana. He worked for the scam operation to fund his mother's medical treatment and support his younger brother, Isaac.
Toward the end of their conversation, Adams explained that scamming elderly people in the United States was wrong. He then made a remarkable offer to the young Ghanaian: "When you quit, call me".
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Stephen Ira Adams (right) and Isaac, Anderson's younger brother, in Louisiana. Photo: CBS News |
Inspired by Adams' words, Anderson decided to leave his fraudulent job. When he reconnected with the American businessman, he did not ask for money. Instead, he sought guidance on obtaining mosquito nets, malaria medicine, and finding educational opportunities.
Over the next five years, the two maintained regular contact via FaceTime. Adams provided financial assistance and medicine, helping Anderson's family achieve stability. "Mr. Steve is my family's benefactor. He sent mosquito nets and medicine for my mother", Anderson recounted.
Anderson's life began to transform. He first worked as a window cleaner at the airport, then secured a position as a security guard at the U.S. Embassy in Accra, Ghana.
Adams' generosity extended to Isaac, Anderson's younger brother. In 10/2021, Isaac enrolled in Biochemistry at Howard University in Washington D.C. During winter break, when dormitories closed, Adams invited Isaac to Louisiana to celebrate Christmas with his own two sons.
Adams' decision to help Anderson was deeply rooted in his own challenging childhood. Born to young parents, he experienced abuse, neglect, and poverty. After a brief time in an orphanage, his maternal grandparents raised him.
Throughout his youth, Adams received help from various strangers: neighbors, passersby during his bike rides, high school janitors, and cafeteria staff who provided him with extra food. These experiences instilled in him a strong belief in becoming a reliable person for others, mirroring the kindness he had received.
"If everyone cared for their family and neighbors, life would be better", Adams said.
By Ngoc Ngan (According to CBS News)
