Former LASD Deputy Sentenced for Aiding Crypto Businessman's Scheme
A former Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) deputy, Eric Chase Saavedra, has been sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for aiding a cryptocurrency businessman's scheme. The scheme involved using law enforcement databases for personal interests and resulted in over $373,000 in unreported income.
Saavedra, who worked as an LASD detective and federal task-force officer, pleaded guilty to conspiracy against rights and false subscription to a tax return in February 2025. He agreed to forfeit items purchased during the alleged conspiracy, including 32 Louis Vuitton bags, 27 pairs of Gucci shoes, and a money-counting machine.
Prosecutors said Saavedra used his LASD credentials to access restricted databases and obtained personal information connected to people involved in disputes with Adam Iza, the cryptocurrency businessman. Saavedra then shared this information with Iza, who hired off-duty LASD deputies as personal enforcers against individuals involved in disputes with him.
The case has sparked a heated debate in the crypto market, and multiple former LASD deputies have faced sentences linked to the case.