Four Men Arrested in Shocking $2 Million Cryptocurrency Kidnapping Plot

Arrest of the Suspects

Four suspects were taken into custody in Miami, Florida for allegedly conspiring to kidnap a jeweler and demand $2 million in cryptocurrency. The individuals arrested include 18-year-old Evan Puckett, 20-year-old Tre'von Anthony Neal, 22-year-old Zacary Briggs, and 21-year-old Aaron Hammond.

The Plot Unfolds

Authorities became aware of the conspiracy on January 6, thanks to a confidential source who reported an individual named "Jack". He was attempting to recruit a group of "goons" to carry out the kidnapping. The source was integrated into a group chat where the suspects discussed their plans and even shared a photo of the victim's cryptocurrency wallet, which allegedly contained around $2 million.

Planning the Crime

The group’s discussions included details about the crime logistics, such as the funds needed for a getaway vehicle and weapons. They explicitly mentioned plans to use "Mac-10s and .223 assault style rifles". A member, referred to as "Dot," stated, "I'm holding him until we get paid," indicating their intention to keep the victim until the ransom was sent.

Undercover Operation

Law enforcement monitored the group by deploying an undercover agent who provided them with a fake getaway vehicle. As the day of the planned kidnapping approached, one suspect remarked that "one good bop" would suffice to incapacitate the victim without causing serious injury.

Arrest and Charges

When all four men were in the vehicle, authorities executed an arrest. They now face multiple charges including kidnapping conspiracy, attempted kidnapping, Hobbs Act robbery conspiracy, and attempted Hobbs Act extortion.