A man accused of stealing tens of millions of dollars in cryptocurrency tied to the U.S. Marshals Service has been arrested in the Caribbean following an international law enforcement operation, according to FBI Director Kash Patel.
The suspect, John Daghita, was taken into custody on the island of Saint Martin in a coordinated effort involving the FBI, the French National Gendarmerie, and specialized tactical units from Guadeloupe. Patel announced the arrest on social media, thanking French authorities for their assistance in locating and apprehending the suspect.
“FBI will continue working 24/7 with our international partners to track down, apprehend, and bring to justice those who attempt to defraud American taxpayers—no matter where they try to hide,” Patel wrote.
Investigators allege that Daghita stole more than $46 million in cryptocurrency connected to digital assets seized by federal authorities. The funds were reportedly under the management of the U.S. Marshals Service, which often holds and administers cryptocurrency confiscated during criminal investigations.
According to reports, Daghita previously worked for Command Services & Support (CMDSS), a Virginia-based technology contractor that had a government contract to help manage digital assets for the Marshals Service. The company is led by Dean Daghita, John Daghita’s father.
Authorities believe the younger Daghita may have gained access to private cryptocurrency addresses and other sensitive information through the company’s work with the government. However, officials have not publicly detailed the exact technical method used to obtain control of the funds.
The case is drawing attention in part because of the enormous amount of cryptocurrency held by the federal government. The U.S. Marshals Service is believed to control roughly 200,000 bitcoin, seized through criminal investigations over the years. At current valuations, that stockpile is estimated to be worth around $13.5 billion.
Because seized digital assets must be securely stored before they are auctioned or otherwise disposed of, the government often relies on specialized contractors to help manage the infrastructure required to hold and track those assets.
The alleged theft raises questions about how access to government-held cryptocurrency is controlled and monitored, particularly when third-party contractors are involved.
Daghita is expected to face extradition proceedings and federal charges in the United States. If convicted, he could face severe penalties due to the scale of the alleged theft and the involvement of government-controlled funds.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue examining how the breach occurred and whether any additional individuals may have been involved.
