A Florida man, Michael Rivas, has pleaded guilty to his involvement in a failed ransom plot that turned violent, targeting a Connecticut couple. The scheme, authorities say, was linked to a massive $240 million cryptocurrency heist. Rivas, along with five other suspects, orchestrated a carjacking in Danbury, intending to force the couple to pay a ransom in digital currency after stealing Bitcoin.
The cryptocurrency theft, carried out just a week prior, involved elaborate schemes where thieves posed as technical support to gain access to their victim’s accounts. Authorities believe the stolen Bitcoin, worth over $240 million at the time, was spent on luxury cars, mansions, and expensive items.
Federal investigators are now exploring any connection between the couple’s son—who reportedly had access to substantial cryptocurrency—and the cryptocurrency theft.
Rivas, who showed remorse during his plea, admitted he was lured into the plot for a share of the ransom money but now deeply regrets his actions.
Sentencing for Rivas is set for May, with a prison term expected to be between 11 to 14 years. The case highlights the dangers of large-scale digital currency theft and the ripple effects it can have beyond financial losses.
