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Cyber Gang Spent $4M on Nightclubs, $9M on Exotic Cars in $263M Crypto Fraud, DOJ Says
By: cryptonews|2025/05/16 14:00:13
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U.S. authorities have charged 12 additional defendants in a sprawling RICO conspiracy involving over $263 million in cryptocurrency thefts, money laundering, and coordinated home invasions, according to a superseding indictment unsealed this week. DOJ: Crypto Crime Ring Laundered $263M via Mixers, Peel Chains, Hermès Birkin Bags, and Stuffed Animal Cash Shipments The indictment, announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro, FBI Special Agent Sean Ryan, and IRS-CI Executive Special Agent Kareem A. Carter, accuses the group—composed of U.S. and foreign nationals—of crimes including racketeering, wire fraud, and obstruction of justice. The alleged enterprise, active from October 2023 to March 2025, originated from connections made on online gaming platforms. Members reportedly held specialized roles, including hackers who allegedly stole cryptocurrency databases, “callers” who used social engineering to trick victims, and burglars who physically stole hardware wallets, law enforcement officials claim. Prosecutors further insist the group laundered proceeds through cryptocurrency mixers, “peel chains,” and shell companies, funneling funds into luxury rentals, private jets, and 28 exotic cars worth up to $3.8 million each. The indictment details lavish spending, including $4 million at nightclubs, $500,000 in watches, and Hermès Birkin bags delivered to associates. One August 2024 theft allegedly netted 4,100 bitcoin ($230 million at the time, now worth $423 million) from a Washington, D.C., victim. In another instance, members broke into a New Mexico home to steal a hardware wallet while monitoring the victim’s location via iCloud. Two suspects remain at large in Dubai, while others were arrested in California this week. The DOJ alleges co-conspirators continued operations post-arrest, including using stuffed toys to mail bulk cash. The case, prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Rosenberg, involves collaboration between the FBI’s Washington, Los Angeles, and Miami offices. If convicted, defendants face sentences based on federal guidelines.
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