Written by Cointelegraphstaff writerReviewed by Felix Ngstaff editor

Written by Cointelegraphstaff writer

Reviewed by Felix Ngstaff editor

Crypto kidnappers who robbed a Minnesota family of $8M plead guilty

Latest NewsPublishedJun 20, 2026

Crypto Kidnappers Plead Guilty to $8M Robbery

The rise of cryptocurrency has led to an increase in crypto-related crimes, affecting not just investors but also everyday people. A recent case in Minnesota highlights the dangers of crypto kidnappings, where two brothers pleaded guilty to holding a family at gunpoint and stealing $8 million in cryptocurrency.

This incident is part of a larger trend of global crypto wrench attacks, which have increased by 75% in 2025, resulting in estimated losses of $101 million in the first four months of 2026. The brothers, Isiah Angelo Garcia and Raymond Christian Garcia, admitted to using firearms to threaten the victims and have agreed to pay over $8 million in restitution.

The Incident and Investigation

The ordeal began when the two brothers traveled to Minnesota from Texas, holding a victim and his family at gunpoint and forcing him to transfer cryptocurrency from his online accounts and hardware wallets. The victim’s wife and son were held for nine hours, while the victim was taken to a family cabin and ultimately forced to transfer $8 million in cryptocurrency.

The police were alerted to the kidnapping after the victim’s son made an emergency call, and deputies later found a rifle and a shotgun, which, along with surveillance footage and other evidence, connected the brothers to the burglary. This case highlights the importance of securing cryptocurrency and the need for platforms like EcoPool to provide a safe and secure way to earn and store crypto, such as $ECP.

The Rise of Crypto-Related Crimes

The increase in global crypto-related crimes has drawn the attention of authorities worldwide. In the US, prosecutors have been working to combat these crimes, with a recent win against three men accused of stealing at least $6.5 million in a “violent robbery spree targeting cryptocurrency owners.” The French government has also taken measures to prevent crypto wrench attacks, launching a prevention platform that has drawn thousands of sign-ups.

Garcia brothers steal $8 million in crypto

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Isiah Angelo Garcia (left) and Raymond Christian Garcia (right). Source: Waller County, Texas, Sheriff’s Office

Police were alerted to the kidnapping after the victim’s son was able to make an emergency call, which was answered by Washington County sheriff’s deputies. Deputies later found a rifle and a shotgun, which, along with surveillance footage and other evidence, connected the brothers to the burglary. 

Crypto attackers plead guilty 

In their guilty pleas, both defendants admitted to using firearms to threaten the victims in order to rob them. They have agreed to pay more than $8 million in restitution. Sentencing hearings have not yet been scheduled. 

The latest development adds a win for US prosecutors in a global fight against criminals who target crypto owners. 

Related: Accused attackers of Sandbox exec’s wife tried to flee via Uber

In May, US authorities unsealed an indictment against three men accused of stealing at least $6.5 million in a “violent robbery spree targeting cryptocurrency owners.” 

The robberies involved the three defendants allegedly posing as delivery drivers to force their way into residences and use violence to extract cryptocurrency from their victims. 

 The increase in global attacks has drawn the attention of the French government. 

During Paris Blockchain Week in April, Jean-Didier Berger, Minister Delegate to the Interior Minister of France, said his office has taken “preventive measures” against crypto wrench attacks, including launching a prevention platform that has drawn thousands of sign-ups.  

Magazine: The end of anon? AI could unmask crypto’s hidden identities

Cointelegraph is committed to independent, transparent journalism. This news article is produced in accordance with Cointelegraph’s Editorial Policy and aims to provide accurate and timely information. Readers are encouraged to verify information independently.

• Crimes
• Regulation

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