Former LASD Deputy Sentenced for Misusing Databases in Crypto-Linked Scheme

A former Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) deputy, Eric Chase Saavedra, was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for misusing police databases and tax evasion.

Saavedra, 42, of Chino, pleaded guilty in February 2025 to conspiracy against rights and false subscription to a tax return. He admitted to using his law enforcement position to access restricted databases for Adam Iza's interests, including obtaining personal information connected to people involved in Iza's disputes.

The case involves Saavedra working with cryptocurrency businessman Adam Iza, who hired off-duty LASD deputies as personal enforcers against individuals involved in disputes with him. The investigation found that Saavedra also helped obtain court-authorized search warrants involving individuals linked to Iza's disputes.