Breaking: DOJ Charges Brothers in $25M Ethereum Blockchain Heist

Kelvin Munene Murithi
May 15, 2024
Why Trust CoinGape
CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
Mexican Cartels Use Bitcoin and Ethereum for Fentanyl Trade

Highlights

  • Brothers indicted for $25M Ethereum blockchain heist.
  • Scheme utilized advanced computer science skills.
  • DOJ intensifies crackdown on cryptocurrency fraud.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has charged two brothers for their supposed involvement in a $25 million cryptocurrency theft on the Ethereum blockchain.

Anton Peraire-Bueno, 24, and James Pepaire-Bueno, 28, are now under the charges of wire fraud and money laundering after their arrest in Boston and New York, respectively.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Details of the DOJ’s Indictment and Arrests

The indictment unsealed on Wednesday reveals that the Peraire-Bueno brothers were involved in a well-structured plan to use the Ethereum blockchain to obtain around $25 million of cryptocurrency illegally. Their plan allegedly was carried out in just 12 seconds, using the computer science and mathematics knowledge and skills they had from a top university.

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams for the Southern District of New York stressed the seriousness of the violation by saying that the brothers’ actions have made people question the honesty of popular blockchain protocols.

The indictment, in addition, shows that the supposed exploit was the first of its kind, thus bringing a new level of complexity to cybersecurity and legal enforcement in the cryptocurrency field.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Investigation and Prosecution Efforts

The investigation, which was carried out by the IRS-CI New York’s Cyber Investigations Unit, with the help of U. S. Customs and Border Protection and the New York City Police Department, showed a strong response to the complicated nature of blockchain-related crimes.

Assistant U. S. Attorneys Rushmi Bhaskaran and Danielle Kudla are in charge of prosecuting the case, which shows the government’s dedication to dealing with and preventing technological fraud.

Special Agent in Charge Thomas Fattorusso from the IRS-CI emphasized the meticulous character of the financial investigation. Despite the technical difficulties, traditional investigative methods turned out to be effective in tracing the defendants’ illegal transactions.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Context and Implications of Blockchain Security

Such a case highlights the possible weaknesses in blockchain technologies, especially those connected with maximal extractable value (MEV) practices. These practices, which include value extraction from the transaction ordering in a blockchain, can possibly be abused, as the Peraire-Bueno brothers suggest.

This case, as a result, is a part of the series of actions by the DOJ that is directed at making the cryptocurrency market more regulated.  Concurrently, at the beginning of this month, the DOJ accused Roger Ver, a famous cryptocurrency supporter often called “Bitcoin Jesus,” of tax evasion worth almost $50 million.

Ver’s case, which involves allegations of misreporting bitcoin holdings following his renouncement of U.S. citizenship, underscores the broader crackdown on financial misconduct in the cryptocurrency sector.

Read Also: Peter Schiff Names CPI Data “Stagflation Trifecta,” Time To Buy Bitcoin?

Advertisement
coingape google news coingape google news
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.

Why Trust CoinGape

CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights Read more…to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.

About Author
About Author
Kelvin Munene is a crypto and finance journalist with over 5 years of experience, offering in-depth market analysis and expert commentary . With a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Actuarial Science from Mount Kenya University, Kelvin is known for his meticulous research and strong writing skills, particularly in cryptocurrency, blockchain, and financial markets. His work has been featured across top industry publications such as Coingape, Cryptobasic, MetaNews, Cryptotimes, Coinedition, TheCoinrepublic, Cryptotale, and Analytics Insight among others, where he consistently provides timely updates and insightful content. Kelvin’s focus lies in uncovering emerging trends in the crypto space, delivering factual and data-driven analyses that help readers make informed decisions. His expertise extends across market cycles, technological innovations, and regulatory shifts that shape the crypto landscape. Beyond his professional achievements, Kelvin has a passion for chess, traveling, and exploring new adventures.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.