Queens resident Yue Zhou, age 42, faces life-altering charges after being accused of attempting to hire a hitman through a dark web site. According to federal prosecutors, Zhou sought to have her lover’s wife murdered via the shadowy website.
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Arrested on June 5, 2024, Zhou was swiftly brought from Virginia to New York for arraignment. The proceeding is set before United States Magistrate Judge Robert M. Levy at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn.
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The alleged plot involved more than just money—Zhou offered cryptocurrency, cash, and even sexual favors as payment. However, her plans were thwarted when she discovered that the website was a scam, operated by law enforcement to catch criminals like Zhou.
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United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Breon Peace, commented on the case, ‘Zhou’s depraved plan highlights the danger of the dark web and the innovative methods law enforcement uses to combat such crimes.’
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HSI New York Special Agent in Charge Ivan J. Arvelo commended the agencies involved for their dedication to justice, stating, ‘Their unwavering commitment has once again protected New Yorkers from a potential act of cold-blooded murder.’
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The indictment details Zhou’s attempts to have both her lover’s wife and his adult daughter killed. Zhou was not only charged with attempted murder-for-hire but also with offering sexual favors in exchange for the latter’s death.
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Assistant United States Attorneys Amanda Shami and Andy Palacio are handling the prosecution of Zhou, who is presumed innocent until proven guilty. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking on the dark web and the lengths some individuals will go to commit heinous acts.
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Key Facts
- State: New York
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Cybercrime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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