A major federal investigation into a massive digital theft took a turn this week as authorities arrested a former U.S. government contractor linked to a crypto theft case involving $46 million. The theft investigation centers on allegations that the contractor stole cryptocurrency tied to the U.S. Marshals Service before fleeing the country.
Federal officials confirmed that John Daghita was arrested on the Caribbean island of Saint Martin during a joint law enforcement operation. The arrest involved coordination between the FBI and French authorities, including elite tactical units.
FBI Director Kash Patel detailed the operation in a statement posted online. “Last night, John Daghita – a U.S. government contractor who allegedly stole more than $46 million in cryptocurrency from the U.S Marshals Service – was arrested on the island of Saint Martin by the French Gendarmerie’s premier elite tactical unit in a joint operation with the FBI,” Patel wrote.
Patel also praised the international effort behind the arrest. “Thanks to the International Cooperation Team Serious Crime Unit of the French Gendarmerie National in Saint Martin, and the Groupe d’intervention de la Gendarmerie nationale of Guadeloupe for the outstanding coordination,” he said.
According to authorities, investigators recovered a briefcase filled with cash and several USB drives during the arrest. Officials believe the evidence could be connected to the alleged cryptocurrency theft.
Records show Daghita previously worked for Command Services & Support, a Virginia-based company run by his father, Dean Daghita. The company reportedly held contracts with the U.S. Marshals Service that allowed it to manage digital currency seized during federal law enforcement operations.
Patel emphasized the FBI’s commitment to pursuing suspects who attempt to steal taxpayer resources. “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,” he said.
Authorities have not yet announced when Daghita will be extradited to the United States to face charges.
