Ex-FBI agent pleads guilty in $2.5M cryptocurrency theft scheme after asking ChatGPT how to flee to Portugal - FOX 5 DC
A former FBI agent from Northern Virginia pleaded guilty to wire fraud and money laundering in a cryptocurrency theft scheme that netted nearly $2.5 million, U.S. officials announced.
Yaroch worked at the FBI Boston Division from 2017 until early 2025 and later at the Counterintelligence and Espionage Division, giving him access to systems containing cryptocurrency credentials from ongoing investigations.
In December 2024, he exploited this access to steal cryptocurrency wallets, including one created by the FBI for an operation, and conducted nearly 100 fraudulent transfers related to 35 different investigations.
The stolen funds were exchanged and laundered through a series of financial transactions. Yaroch transferred nearly $93,082 to his own accounts between November 2025 and January 2026 to pay off debts like car loans and credit card bills.
Plans to flee to Portugal
Court documents reveal Yaroch intended to use the stolen money to start a new life abroad. He asked ChatGPT how to maximize investments and where to live in Europe.
After ChatGPT suggested he buy a vineyard in Portugal, Yaroch took steps to register with the Portuguese Tax and Customs Authority and obtain a tax identification number.
He made arrangements to travel to Portugal in September 2026, but his scheme was ultimately uncovered and he pleaded guilty to the charges.
Sentencing and consequences
Yaroch's actions compromised multiple FBI investigations, and he is scheduled for a sentencing hearing on March 4, 2027. He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
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