Adam Iza, Hobbs Act Robbery, Connecticut 2024

A brazen attempted Bitcoin robbery and kidnapping shook the streets of Danbury, Connecticut, in August 2024. The culprit, identified as Adam Iza, 25, of California, pleaded guilty in Bridgeport federal court to his role in the crime.

According to court documents, Iza and his co-conspirators planned and coordinated the attempted robbery and kidnapping of two individuals, who were the parents of someone involved in a massive Bitcoin heist. The scheme involved a violent carjacking of a Lamborghini Urus on August 25, 2024, in Danbury, which led to the kidnapping of the two victims.

The investigation revealed that Iza communicated with his co-conspirators via cellphone and encrypted messaging applications, directing them on the logistics of the scheme and providing funding. His alleged co-conspirator, who had an altercation with the victims' son in a Miami nightclub in July 2024, provided funding for the crime and helped arrange the participants' transportation and lodging.

Iza pleaded guilty to conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery, also known as Hobbs Act Robbery, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. He is currently being held since September 24, 2024, after being charged with unrelated federal offenses in the Central District of California.

The case is being investigated by the FBI New Haven Violent Crimes Task Force, FBI Los Angeles, FBI St. Louis, and the Danbury Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen L. Peck and Daniel George are prosecuting the case.

U.S. Attorney David X. Sullivan thanked the U.S. Attorney's Offices for the Central District of California, the Eastern District of Missouri, the District of Columbia, and the District of New Jersey, as well as the State's Attorney's Office for the Judicial District of Danbury, for their assistance in the investigation and prosecution of this matter.

Adam Iza's sentencing is scheduled for August 12, where he will face the consequences of his actions. The attempted Bitcoin robbery and kidnapping serve as a reminder of the severity of crimes that involve violence and exploitation.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ct/pr/california-man-admits-role-attempted-robbery-danbury