U.S. teens charged in attempted $66 million crypto theft

Key points:

• Two teenagers in the U.S. have been arrested on suspicion of attacking a home in an attempt to steal roughly $66 million in cryptocurrency.
• Investigators say they acted on instructions from anonymous recruiters who communicated with them via an encrypted messaging app.

Two teenagers have been arrested in the United States in connection with an attempted $66 million cryptocurrency robbery. According to police, the attack took place in Arizona, while the suspects traveled there from California. Investigators believe the teens were recruited online by anonymous handlers who communicated with them through the encrypted messaging app Signal.

The suspects are identified as 17-year-old Jackson Sullivan and 16-year-old Skylar LaPaille. Police say they were offered a role in stealing digital assets worth about $66 million.

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On January 31, the suspects arrived at a private home in Scottsdale, posing as delivery workers. When the homeowners opened the door, the teens allegedly forced their way inside and restrained two adults with tape. Investigators say they then tried to pressure one of the victims into handing over access to cryptocurrency wallets.

The situation quickly spiraled out of control. One family member managed to hide and call the police. Officers who arrived at the scene found tactical gear, disguises, restraints, and an unloaded 3D-printed firearm.

As the investigation progressed, detectives concluded that the teenagers were likely just foot soldiers rather than the organizers of the crime. About a month before the incident, they were reportedly contacted by individuals using the aliases “Red” and “8.” Police say these individuals sent the teens around $1,000 to purchase clothing and equipment for the attack.

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Police tracked the suspects through social media and license plate recognition

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Both suspects were released on $50,000 bail and are now subject to GPS monitoring. Their legal future remains uncertain, as the court weighs the seriousness of the charges against their age and the possible influence of adult organizers.

A judge is expected to make a decision in the case on Tuesday, February 10. At that point, it will be determined whether the case stays in juvenile court or is transferred to adult court.