Federal Contractor Accused of Stealing $46 Million in Cryptocurrency Arrested in Caribbean, FBI Reports
March 5, 2026 — A federal contractor allegedly responsible for stealing $46 million worth of cryptocurrency from the U.S. Marshals Service has been apprehended in the Caribbean, according to an announcement from the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
John Daghita was arrested Wednesday night on the island of Saint Martin in a joint operation involving multiple international law enforcement agencies. FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the arrest on social media, sharing photos that showed Daghita being taken into custody in handcuffs. The images also depicted a suitcase containing large amounts of cash, along with computer flash drives and identification documents.
The operation was conducted in close cooperation with the International Cooperation Team Serious Crime Unit of the French Gendarmerie National in Saint Martin, and the elite Groupe d’intervention de la Gendarmerie Nationale of Guadeloupe. This collaboration underscores the FBI’s commitment to working collaboratively with international partners to bring fugitives to justice.
Details about how Daghita allegedly accessed and stole the cryptocurrency have not been released. The FBI emphasized its dedication to pursuing those who attempt to defraud American taxpayers, regardless of where they seek refuge.
"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," Director Patel stated.
The theft represents one of the largest cryptocurrency-related crimes involving a federal contractor to date, highlighting concerns over the security of digital assets managed by government entities. As investigations continue, authorities are expected to release further information regarding the methods used in the heist and potential accomplices.
This significant arrest follows a growing trend of law enforcement cracking down on cryptocurrency crimes. It also demonstrates the increasing complexity of digital asset theft investigations, which require cross-border cooperation and specialized expertise.
CBS News will continue monitoring the case and provide updates as more information becomes available. For further details on similar crime stories and justice-related updates, visit CBSNews.com.
Reported by Cara Tabachnick, News Editor, CBSNews.com
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