ICYMI: Plot to Kidnap Florida Jeweler for $2 Million in Cryptocurrency Thwarted by FBI
Four Florida men plotted a kidnapping to steal millions in cryptocurrency, but the FBI’s undercover sting stopped them. 🌐 #News #MiamiFL #Florida #Crime
MIAMI, FL – Federal agents in Florida unraveled an elaborate scheme involving four individuals accused of planning a chilling kidnapping. Their alleged target? A Miami jeweler who they believed could be coerced into handing over $2 million in cryptocurrency.
According to investigators, the four men devised a detailed plan to abduct the jeweler, who worked in downtown Miami’s Seybold Building, while he attempted to exchange the digital currency for cash.
The FBI’s swift action, aided by a confidential informant and undercover operations, stopped the plot before it could unfold.
Now, the accused are facing a slew of serious charges, including conspiracy, attempted kidnapping, and extortion.
Secret Chats and Sinister Plans
The investigation began on January 6 when a confidential source tipped off federal authorities.
The source described how a man, referred to only as “Jack,” was assembling a group to carry out the abduction. Their conversations allegedly took place in a group chat ominously titled “Play,” where the suspects discussed logistics for the crime, including the weapons and vehicles they would need.
One message reportedly referenced the operation’s lucrative potential, calling it “big money, easy.”
Another outlined the need for $3,500 to cover costs for supplies and a rental car. When one suspect balked at the expense, others reportedly offered to pitch in.
The group’s plan was clear: capture the jeweler and hold him until he transferred his cryptocurrency. They reportedly assured each other they didn’t intend to harm the victim, yet one chilling message suggested a single blow would be enough to subdue him.
FBI’s Undercover Sting
Unbeknownst to the suspects, the confidential informant they enlisted to provide a vehicle was working with the FBI. The agency equipped the vehicle with cameras, tracking devices, and listening equipment. Meanwhile, agents monitored two suspects’ phones using GPS data.
On January 13, one of the accused allegedly obtained two firearms—a handgun and an AR-style pistol—and shared photos with the group. That same day, the suspects converged in Broward County to begin their operation. However, FBI agents were already in place, prepared to intervene.
As the men approached the undercover vehicle, agents swooped in. Three suspects surrendered immediately, while one attempted to flee. He was quickly apprehended nearby.
Arrests and Allegations
The suspects—Evan Puckett, 18; Tre’von Anthony Neal, 20; Zacary Briggs, 22; and Aaron Hammond, 21—were taken into custody and charged.
Court documents allege that Puckett admitted his involvement but downplayed the presence of firearms, claiming they were only for protection.
Neal reportedly claimed he was there as “security,” while Briggs and Hammond offered varying explanations for their roles, including acting as the driver or the person responsible for ambushing the victim.
Investigators also revealed that Puckett had a history of cryptocurrency scams, which may have motivated the plot. The accused now remain in jail without bond, awaiting their next court appearance on January 21.
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | Florida
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
We value your feedback! Did you find this article informative, inspiring, or thought-provoking? Leave a comment below and join the discussion. We appreciate your opinion and look forward to hearing from you!
