‘Loner’ on $2m online currency theft charge

Conor Freeman (21) leaving court after an earlier appearance. PIC: Collins Courts

November 17 2020 02:30 AM

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A “loner” was identified by US Homeland Security as taking part in the online theft of over $2m-worth of cryptocurrencies, a court heard.

After his arrest, Conor Freeman (21) handed over what remained of his share from the theft to gardaí.

Freeman, of Glenageary Court, Dun Laoghaire, Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to knowingly engaging in the possession of the proceeds of crime – 142.75682712 Bitcoin.

He further pleaded guilty to stealing $100,000 in cryptocurrency from Darran Marble on May 15, 2018, stealing cryptocurrencies with an approximate value of $1,921,335, from Seth Sharpiro on May 16, 2018, and stealing cryptocurrencies with an approximate value of $167,622.22 from Micheal Templeman on May 18, 2018.

He also pleaded guilty to three counts of dishonestly operating a computer to make a gain between May 15 and May 18, 2018.

Sergeant Tom Anderson told John Berry BL, prosecuting, that Freeman was identified by the US Department of Homeland Security as being the person behind certain internet handles connected to the offences. Sgt Anderson said Freeman was part of a group of people who had met online. This group identified people on social media who they believed might have access to cryptocurrency.

They were able to gain access to the email addresses and phone numbers of these people via social media, which was information needed to commit the crimes.

Judge Martin Nolan remanded Freeman on continuing bail and adjourned the case until today.