Florida Man Pleads Guilty in Failed Ransom Scheme Linked to Bitcoin Heist

Guilty Plea in Federal Court

Michael Rivas, a 19-year-old from Miami, pleaded guilty on Thursday to kidnapping and conspiracy charges in federal court in Hartford, Connecticut. The charges stem from the carjacking and kidnapping of a Connecticut couple in August 2022.

Rivas is one of six men arrested in connection with the plot, which authorities say may have been tied to a $240 million cryptocurrency heist. Sentencing for Rivas is scheduled for May 13, with prosecutors and defense lawyers agreeing on guidelines for an 11- to 14-year prison term.

Details of the Kidnapping Plot

The couple was driving a new Lamborghini SUV in Danbury, Connecticut, when they were forced out of their vehicle. They were assaulted, bound with duct tape, and placed in a van. Quick action by witnesses led police to the suspects, four of whom were arrested after fleeing on foot. The other two were later apprehended at an Airbnb rental.

According to a federal indictment, the suspects believed the couple’s son had access to significant cryptocurrency holdings. They intended to demand a ransom in digital currency.

Possible Link to $240M Bitcoin Heist

Just a week before the kidnapping, two thieves reportedly stole over 4,100 Bitcoin—worth $240 million at the time—through an elaborate online scam. The thieves posed as tech support staff for Google and a cryptocurrency exchange to gain access to the victim’s computer.

Authorities have not publicly confirmed a direct link between the Bitcoin theft and the kidnapping. However, an FBI inquiry is reportedly exploring whether the couple’s son was involved in the cryptocurrency case.

High-Spending Suspects in Bitcoin Theft

Two individuals, Malone Lam and Jeandiel Serrano, were indicted in September for their roles in the Bitcoin theft. Court documents detail their extravagant spending, including custom luxury cars, multi-million-dollar watches, and lavish nights at clubs. At least $100 million of the stolen funds remains missing.

Apology and Sentencing

During his court appearance, Rivas expressed remorse, calling his involvement a “dumb decision.” He admitted to joining the scheme in hopes of a share of the ransom but claimed he did not fully understand the consequences.

“This is not what my parents taught me growing up,” Rivas said, apologizing to the victims and the court.

The five other suspects, also from Florida, face related state charges, including kidnapping and assault, in Connecticut.