Crypto scam launderer gets 70 months as DOJ cracks down

Evan Tangeman, a 22-year-old California resident, has been sentenced to 70 months in prison for his role in a crypto theft group. 

The group stole about $263 million from victims through social engineering scams and burglary.

Tangeman pleaded guilty in December 2025. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, he admitted that he helped members of the group launder at least $3.5 million in stolen funds.

DOJ says group spent stolen funds on luxury assets

The DOJ said the criminal group used stolen crypto to fund a costly lifestyle. Prosecutors said members spent money on real estate, luxury cars, Rolex watches, and large nightclub bills.

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said the group showed extreme greed. She stated, “They stole millions, spent it on half-million-dollar nightclub tabs, Lamborghinis, and Rolexes.”

Moreover, Tangeman also received three years of supervised release after his prison term. Prosecutors said his conduct went beyond laundering stolen money for the group.

Pirro said Tangeman tried to destroy evidence after other members of the group were arrested. She said, “That is consciousness of guilt,” adding that the court treated the conduct seriously.

Crypto crime cases rise in 2026

The sentencing comes as crypto scam and hack losses reached $482 million in the first quarter of 2026. Authorities have warned that criminal groups continue to target crypto users through online scams and physical attacks.

France has also reported a rise in violent attacks against crypto holders. Telegram co-founder Pavel Durov claimed there were 41 kidnappings of French crypto holders in the first quarter of 2026 alone.