Three Men Charged in Alleged Bitcoin Kidnapping Scheme

Federal prosecutors have charged three Missouri men in an alleged Bitcoin kidnapping scheme. Sedric Louis, John Davis, and Martel Williams allegedly planned to rob a relative of someone linked to the theft of hundreds of millions of dollars in Bitcoin.

The indictment alleges that the men traveled to Connecticut, rented vehicles, and obtained air rifles and walkie-talkies before stalking their target and his parents for two days. Their plan was to force entry into the family's home and demand a cryptocurrency transfer.

A federal grand jury charged all three with conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery under the Hobbs Act, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years. Louis and Davis remain detained, while Williams was released on bond; all three pleaded not guilty.