Brothers Charged in Armed Kidnapping After $8 Million Crypto Heist
Two Minnesota brothers face federal and state charges following a violent hostage situation tied to an $8 million cryptocurrency theft. Raymond and Isiah Garcia allegedly held a family at gunpoint for nine hours on September 19, forcing transfers of digital assets to a specified wallet. The incident disrupted local events, including a canceled homecoming football game.
Authorities traced the suspects through a Wendy's receipt and surveillance footage. The case highlights cryptocurrency's growing role in high-stakes crimes, though no specific coins were named in the indictment. Investigators confirmed the brothers discovered additional funds during the ordeal, compelling one victim to retrieve a hardware wallet from a remote cabin.