LAPD Investigates $579,000 Bitcoin ASIC Miner Theft, Suspect Released

According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), a 26-year-old man was arrested and charged with stealing $579,000 worth of application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) bitcoin miners. Local reports confirmed that the man has been released from jail, and the LAPD stated that the investigation is ongoing.

Canyon Country Resident Accused of Stealing $579K Worth of Bitcoin Miners

On July 1, 2024, Los Angeles police announced on the social media platform X that a resident of Canyon Country, Santa Clarita, California, was taken into custody for possessing stolen property.

Authorities identified the suspect as Bryan Thola, 26, who allegedly stored stolen bitcoin (BTC) mining ASICs in a cargo van at a public storage facility. The LAPD’s Commercial Crimes Division’s Cargo Theft Unit (CTU) reported that the suspect was booked at LAPD’s Van Nuys Jail.

Local news outlet ktla.com reported that Thola was “released on his own recognizance.” This incident is not the first time the LAPD has dealt with bitcoin mining rig theft. In late March, the CTU apprehended three individuals accused of stealing $6.9 million worth of bitcoin miners.

Like the March incident, the LAPD on July 1 asked for public assistance, seeking tips from anyone with information on such matters. Law enforcement officials are urging the public to come forward with any relevant details about the case.

What do you think about the LAPD arresting individuals accused of possessing stolen bitcoin miners? Share your thoughts and opinions about this subject in the comments section below.

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