4 ‘goons’ arrested for allegedly conspiring to kidnap a jeweler for $2 million in crypto

MIAMI, Fla. (WKRC) – Four men were arrested after allegedly conspiring to kidnap a jeweler and hold him until he transferred them $2 million in cryptocurrency.

18-year-old Evan Puckett, 20-year-old Tre’von Anthony Neal, 22-year-old Zacary Briggs, and 21-year-old Aaron Hammond were arrested for alleged conspiracy to kidnap among other charges.

Authorities first became involved with the group of suspects on Jan. 6 when a confidential source provided a tip about an individual who went by the name of “Jack” who was attempting to form a group of “goons” who would kidnap a jeweler for $2 million in cryptocurrency, according to an arrest affidavit.

The confidential source was added to a group chat with Jack and the other “goons,” as he called them, to discuss the kidnapping plot, according to the affidavit. Jack allegedly sent a photo of the victim’s cryptocurrency wallet which contained around $2 million in cryptocurrency.

Once the group chat was formed the four men allegedly began discussing how they would commit the crime, including how much money they would need for the getaway car and guns. Specifically, the group allegedly planned on bringing “Mac-10s and .223 assault style rifles.”

One of the members, who went by “Dot,” said “Im holding him until we get paid,” referring to keeping the victim until he sends the money, according to the document.

Authorities were able to keep an eye on the group by using an undercover agent to give them a fake getaway vehicle, per the affidavit.

On the day of the planned kidnapping one of the men reportedly said “one good bop” should be enough to knock the victim out without giving him brain damage.

When all four men were in the car authorities moved in to arrest them.

All four men were arrested and charged with kidnapping conspiracy, attempted kidnapping, Hobbs Act Robbery Conspiracy and Attempted Hobbs Act Extortion.