’Crypto King’ Kidnapper Pleads Guilty as Co-Defendants’ Trial Delayed
Deren Akyeam-Pong has admitted to nine charges, including kidnapping and assault, in connection with the 2022 abduction of Ontario's self-proclaimed "Crypto King" Aiden Pleterski. The guilty plea prompted an immediate adjournment of the trial for co-defendants Akil Heywood and Alfredo Paladino, with no new date set.
Cybersecurity experts warn that flaunting crypto gains on social media invites targeted attacks. "Oversharing practically paints a target on people's backs," said consultant David Sehyeon Baek. Criminals increasingly exploit open-source intelligence from traders posting profit screenshots or luxury purchases.