Full Breakdown
Arrest of John Daghita: Allegations of $46 Million Cryptocurrency Theft from U.S. Marshals Service
3/6/2026, 12:20:35 AM
Overview of the Arrest
John Daghita, a former U.S. government contractor, was arrested on the island of Saint Martin for allegedly stealing over $46 million in cryptocurrency from the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS). The arrest was a coordinated effort between the FBI and the French Gendarmerie, as confirmed by FBI Director Kash Patel. Daghita's arrest follows a series of investigations that began with a public dispute on Telegram, where he inadvertently revealed control over a significant crypto wallet.
Background on Command Services & Support
Daghita worked for Command Services & Support (CMDSS), a Virginia-based firm led by his father, Dean Daghita. CMDSS was awarded a $4 million contract by the USMS in October 2024 to manage and dispose of certain categories of seized cryptocurrency, including complex assets from high-profile cases like the 2016 Bitfinex hack. Allegations suggest that John Daghita exploited his insider access to siphon funds from government-linked wallets.
Details of the Allegations
Investigations led by blockchain analyst ZachXBT indicated that Daghita, known online as "Lick," had the ability to move millions of dollars in cryptocurrency in real-time. Reports suggest that he may have accessed private crypto addresses through his father's position at CMDSS, although the specifics of how he gained this access remain unclear. Daghita's activities reportedly involved tracing at least $24.9 million to a U.S. government-controlled wallet, with total suspected thefts potentially exceeding $90 million.
Official Statements & Responses
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the importance of international cooperation in the arrest, stating, "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 further affirmed the FBI's commitment to working around the clock with international partners to bring to justice those who defraud American taxpayers.
Criticism & Opposition
The case has raised concerns about the oversight of cryptocurrency management within federal agencies. Analysts have pointed out significant gaps in how the USMS tracks and secures its digital assets, especially given its role as the primary custodian for the U.S. Bitcoin Reserve. CMDSS's contract faced prior scrutiny from competitor Wave Digital Assets, which raised questions about the firm's qualifications and potential conflicts of interest.
What's Next
Daghita is expected to face extradition proceedings, and formal criminal charges are anticipated to be made public soon. The case is likely to prompt further discussions on the need for reform in the management of federally held cryptocurrency, as scrutiny of the USMS's practices intensifies.
Verbatim Quotes
- “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,” — Kash Patel, FBI Director
- “The 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.” — Kash Patel, FBI Director
