Trenton Johnston admitted in Miami federal court to a money-laundering conspiracy tied to crypto scams that allegedly netted about $13 million, with filings detailing impersonation tactics, an overstayed visa and a 185-bitcoin theft claim.
Canadian national Trenton Johnston pleaded guilty in Miami federal court to conspiracy to launder money in a case tied to about $13 million from crypto scams, The New York Times reported. Court filings said Johnston overstayed a U.S. visa and used impersonation and social engineering, including posing as representatives of Google and crypto companies, to help carry out the fraud. Prosecutors linked the conduct to the theft of about 185 bitcoin from a California resident, and filings said Johnston boasted on Signal about stealing the tokens. Dealer Brandon Tardibone also pleaded guilty. Johnston is expected to face 4 to 5 years in prison before deportation to Canada.