Michaela
Two Texas brothers have been charged with seven felonies after allegedly kidnapping victims at gunpoint and forcing them to transfer at least $36,000 to an undisclosed cryptocurrency wallet.
Key points;
- Two Texas brothers face seven felony charges for allegedly carrying out a crypto kidnapping, forcing a Minnesota family to transfer at least $36,000 to an unknown crypto wallet.
- Police recovered evidence including a hidden AR-15, clothing, and a rental car, which helped trace the suspects’ movements from Texas to Minnesota.
- The victim noted a possible connection to a previous data breach, emphasizing growing security risks for crypto holders as targeted thefts and violent crimes rise.
According to CBS News, the brothers face three counts each of using a firearm to commit kidnapping, three counts of first-degree assault during a burglary with a firearm, and one count of first-degree robbery with a firearm.
Documents indicated that on September 19, at around 5 p.m., a man from Minnesota contacted police, reporting that he and his family were held at gunpoint in their home. The caller stated that his father had been forced to transfer funds to an unknown cryptocurrency wallet.
The victim’s father was then compelled to drive approximately three hours to a family cabin. Upon arrival, he was forced to transfer at least an additional $36,000 to an unidentified crypto wallet. The victim’s father later informed investigators that he suspected some of his account information had been exposed in a previous data breach.
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Furthermore, charging documents revealed that police discovered a suitcase hidden in a tree line near the home containing an AR-15 style rifle, clothing, and various bottles and cans. Investigators also found a Wendy’s receipt among the items, which helped trace a rental car used during the incident. The vehicle had been rented near Houston, Texas, several days prior to the kidnapping.
Security footage shows the rental car parked outside a Waller, Texas home shared by the renter and his brother. The vehicle was also spotted at a Roseville, Minnesota motel, where multiple rooms had been booked starting September 17.
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The two brothers allegedly approached a victim early last Friday morning as he was taking out the trash and forced him into the garage, where he was restrained. Wearing dark clothing, masks, and armed, the suspects then entered the home, bound the rest of the family, and held them at gunpoint in a bedroom for nine hours.
As the investigation into the case continues, it is notable that the victim pointed to a potential link between the incident and a previous data breach, spotlighting ongoing concerns about the security of digital assets.
This case is part of a growing trend in which digital asset holders have increasingly become targets for crypto kidnapping and violent crimes. In response, many are taking extra precautions to safeguard their funds, personal safety, and the well-being of their families.
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MICHAELA
Michaela is a news writer focused on cryptocurrency and blockchain topics. She prioritizes rigorous research and accuracy to uncover interesting angles and ensure engaging reporting. A lifelong book lover, she applies her passion for reading to deeply explore the constantly evolving crypto world.
