by Saint Martin — A former U.S. government contractor accused of stealing $46 million in cryptocurrency tied to federal law enforcement operations has been arrested in the Caribbean following a joint international investigation.
The arrest was announced by Kash Patel, who said the suspect was taken into custody during a coordinated operation between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and French authorities.
Arrest Made on Caribbean Island
The suspect, identified as John Daghita, was arrested on the island of Saint Martin.
According to officials, the arrest was carried out by the French Gendarmerie in coordination with U.S. investigators.
“Last night, John Daghita – a U.S. government contractor who allegedly stole more than $46 million in cryptocurrency from the U.S. Marshals Service – was arrested on the island of Saint Martin,” Patel said in a statement.
Authorities said the operation involved specialized tactical units from France working alongside FBI agents.
Cryptocurrency Linked to Federal Asset Management
Investigators allege the stolen cryptocurrency was connected to digital assets managed by the U.S. Marshals Service. The agency often oversees cryptocurrency and other assets seized during criminal investigations.
According to reports, Daghita previously worked for Command Services & Support, a Virginia-based company that held government contracts related to managing seized digital currency.
The company is reportedly operated by Daghita’s father.
Cash and Digital Storage Devices Recovered
Authorities said that during the arrest operation, officers discovered a briefcase containing cash along with several USB drives.
Investigators believe the digital storage devices could contain information connected to the alleged cryptocurrency theft.
Officials have not yet disclosed the full scope of the evidence collected.
International Cooperation in Investigation
Law enforcement officials credited cooperation between U.S. and French authorities for the successful arrest.
“The FBI will continue working 24/7 with our international partners to track down and bring to justice those who attempt to defraud American taxpayers,” Patel said.
Authorities from specialized French tactical units based in Guadeloupe and Saint Martin reportedly assisted in the operation.
Separate Crypto Crime Case in Arizona
The arrest comes amid increasing attention on crimes tied to digital assets.
In a separate case last month, authorities in Arizona arrested two teenagers accused of carrying out a home invasion connected to an alleged $66 million cryptocurrency scheme.
Investigators said the suspects posed as delivery drivers to enter a home in Scottsdale before allegedly attacking residents and attempting to steal digital assets.
Police later arrested the teens after they fled the scene.
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Investigation Continues
Officials have not yet released details about when Daghita may appear in court or whether he will be extradited to the United States.
The case remains under investigation as authorities continue examining financial records and digital evidence.
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