Two California teenagers are in custody following a violent home invasion targeting a massive cryptocurrency fortune, an incident police say was orchestrated by anonymous handlers via the encrypted messaging app Signal. Jackson Sullivan, 17, and Skylar LaPaille, 16, allegedly traveled from California to Arizona after being recruited online to steal an estimated $66 million in digital assets.
According to a report, the teenagers arrived at a Scottsdale residence on Jan. 31 disguised as delivery workers. Investigators said that once the door was opened, the pair forced their way inside and used duct tape to restrain two homeowners.
The situation turned violent as the suspects reportedly assaulted one of the victims, attempting to coerce them into handing over access to cryptocurrency wallets. The ordeal was interrupted when a third family member, who managed to hide during the initial breach, alerted authorities.
Read more: From Mainstream Success to Physical Threat: How Bitcoin’s Surge Created a New Criminal Class
When Scottsdale police arrived, they reportedly discovered a woman screaming for help while one of the teenagers was assaulting a male victim. Officers also found tactical gear, including disguises and restraints, and an unloaded 3D-printed handgun in the suspects’ possession.
Following an initial probe, detectives determined that Sullivan and LaPaille were likely “pawns” rather than the operation’s masterminds. Records indicate the teens were contacted roughly a month prior by individuals using the handles “Red” and “8” on the Signal app.
These anonymous recruiters allegedly sent the teenagers $1,000 to fund the purchase of disguises and equipment.
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in Scottsdale,” local resident Robert Jenkins said in response to the incident.
Both teens were released on a $50,000 bond with GPS monitoring. Their long-term status remains uncertain as the court weighs the severity of the charges against their ages and the influence of the recruiters.
The judge presiding over the case is expected to decide on Tuesday, Feb. 10, regarding bail status and the potential transfer of the case to adult court.
- What happened in Scottsdale? Two California teens invaded a home to steal $66M in crypto.
- How were they recruited? Anonymous handlers on Signal paid them $1,000 for disguises and gear.
- What did police find? Victims restrained, tactical gear, and a 3D‑printed handgun.
- What’s next legally? The judge will decide Feb. 10 on bail and possible transfer to adult court.
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