California Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Bitcoin Robbery Scheme

A California man has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for his role in a Bitcoin robbery scheme and kidnapping. ADAM IZA, 26, was found guilty of conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act Robbery) in the District of Connecticut.

Iza planned and coordinated an attempted robbery and kidnapping in Danbury in August 2024. The victims were the parents of a man involved in the theft of hundreds of millions of dollars in Bitcoin, and Iza aimed to steal some of that Bitcoin through his scheme.

The investigation revealed that Iza communicated with the kidnappers via cellphone and encrypted messaging applications, directed them on the logistics, and provided funding for the crime. His brother, Saif Faiq, also pleaded guilty to the same offense and awaits sentencing.

Other individuals involved in the carjacking and kidnapping have pleaded guilty, while some co-conspirators are awaiting trial. The case is being investigated by the FBI New Haven Violent Crimes Task Force, FBI Los Angeles, FBI St. Louis, and the Danbury Police Department.