Two teenagers from California are facing major charges after an alleged attempt to break into a Scottsdale home in search of Crypto assets reportedly valued at $66 million.
Authorities say the suspects, both under 18, drove more than 600 miles to Arizona and posed as delivery workers to gain access to a residence in the Sweetwater Ranch area. Once inside, they allegedly restrained two adults and demanded access to digital funds.
The situation escalated when one of the victims insisted they did not own any Crypto, leading to a physical altercation. Police were alerted after a family member inside the home managed to call for help.
Officers arrived while the confrontation was still unfolding. The suspects fled in a blue Subaru but were stopped minutes later at a dead end.
Inside the vehicle, police found zip ties, duct tape, stolen plates, and a 3D-printed firearm. No ammunition was recovered, and it’s unclear whether the weapon could be fired.
Investigators believe the teens were guided remotely by unknown individuals using encrypted messaging. According to police, the suspects received money for supplies and were given the address by contacts known only as “Red” and “8.”
One suspect reportedly told officers he agreed to the trip after being invited to “tie people up” in exchange for access to Crypto.
Prosecutors plan to try both suspects as adults, with multiple felony charges including kidnapping, burglary, and aggravated assault. They were later released on $50,000 bail and placed under electronic monitoring.
The case highlights a growing trend of physical attacks aimed at forcing access to digital assets, often involving young recruits and leaked personal data. Officials say many similar incidents are never reported.
Authorities have not connected this case to other ransom-related incidents reported elsewhere in Arizona around the same time.
Disclaimer: This content does not constitute trading or investment recommendations. It’s essential to conduct your own research before purchasing any cryptocurrency or investing in any services.
