Teenagers in Las Vegas Accused of Kidnapping and Robbing Crypto Investor

Three teenagers in the United States have been charged with kidnapping, extortion, and stealing crypto assets worth $4 million, according to local outlet 8 News Now.

Authorities have arrested two of the alleged perpetrators, both 16-year-old residents of Florida. It is reported that a court had previously recognized the youths as adults. The third participant remains at large and, according to the prosecution, has left the United States.

The victim approached law enforcement in November, stating that he was hosting a cryptocurrency-related event at a venue in downtown Las Vegas. The three kidnappers awaited him that evening in the parking lot near his home.

The victim was forced into the back seat of his own car, had his head covered with a towel, and was told his father would be killed if he did not comply. The criminals then demanded access to the victim’s financial accounts. A fourth accomplice advised the kidnappers by phone. As a result, they obtained cryptocurrencies and NFTs valued at approximately $4 million.

According to law enforcement, the victim was driven 100 km across the Nevada state line. He walked 8 km to the nearest gas station, where he was able to seek help.

It is reported that the three individuals had previously been noted for disorderly conduct at their school in Florida.

Attorneys for the two arrested have requested house arrest for their clients. One of the defendants was granted bail set at $4 million, while the other was released with the condition of electronic movement monitoring.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 2025.

In May, in France, crypto extortionists were detained after kidnapping their victim’s father.