A mysterious figure, going by the name of “Red,” is believed to be orchestrating a complex operation from an undisclosed location, leaving authorities puzzled about his identity.
The Enigmatic Bitcoin Heist Director
New details emerged during a recent court proceeding in Maricopa County, revealing that an unknown third party was in constant communication with two teenagers from California, guiding them in real-time during a violent robbery in Scottsdale, Arizona.
The individuals involved, identified as Jackson Sullivan, 17, and Skylar LaPaille, 16, disclosed to investigators that they were in touch with “Red” and another accomplice referred to as “8.” They utilized the encrypted messaging application Signal for their communication and even received $1,000 for supplies prior to executing their plan.
The intended target was a couple suspected of possessing a staggering $66 million in cryptocurrency.
Records indicate that Sullivan and LaPaille traveled approximately 600 miles from San Luis Obispo, California, arriving at the targeted residence in the early hours of January 30.
Teenage home invaders attempted to seize $66 million in crypto, authorities report pic.twitter.com/gprkdHnjvs
— azfamily 3TV CBS 5 (@azfamily) March 27, 2026
A Brutal Invasion
Dressed in delivery uniforms purchased online and equipped with a false package and a dolly, the teenagers forced their way into the home when it was opened by the residents.
The situation escalated dangerously, with the couple being bound with duct tape and subjected to physical violence as the intruders demanded access to their cryptocurrency holdings.
In a poignant testament to their ordeal, the homeowner addressed the court, recounting, “I suffered a concussion and fractured ribs. They deceived us to gain entry and brutally attacked me in my own home.”
The couple’s son was present, managed to conceal himself, and alerted authorities.
Law enforcement arrived while the break-in was still unfolding.
The perpetrators fled in a vehicle with stolen plates, navigating dangerously against traffic as they attempted to escape.
They were apprehended shortly after 11:30 a.m. on January 31. Evidence left at the crime scene included duct tape, zip ties, a 3D-printed imitation firearm, and a burner phone.
Both teens now face numerous charges, including aggravated assault, kidnapping, and second-degree burglary.
After posting a $50,000 cash bond, Sullivan is now under electronic monitoring, while LaPaille’s bond status remains uncertain.
The defense argues that both youths were manipulated into participating in the crime. Sullivan’s attorney stated that his client was targeted online and that his parents never knew of the planned robbery.
The teens claimed that external pressures forced them into executing the plan.
An FBI representative confirmed their awareness of the situation but stated that they are not directly involved in the investigation at this time.
Meanwhile, the elusive “Red” has yet to be apprehended, with prosecutors admitting they remain unaware of his location.
Image sourced from Unsplash, chart from TradingView
