Two Men Charged in Kidnapping of Teen Crypto Trader
Authorities have charged a convicted felon purportedly connected to the Israeli mob and a former Los Angeles Police Department officer in relation to the abduction of a teenager involved in cryptocurrency trading. On Friday, Deputy District Attorney Jane Brownstone shared insights into the case involving Gabby Ben and Eric Halem, both of whom have entered not guilty pleas.
Background of the Accused
Gabby Ben, aged 51, has a criminal history that includes two fraud convictions and a subsequent deportation to Israel. Court documents reveal that he is believed to have connections to organized crime in Israel. Eric Halem, 38, is a former LAPD officer with 13 years of service, having left the force in 2022. Reports suggest that he was exploring the potential for a reality TV series based on his experiences in law enforcement.
Details of the Abduction
Ben, Halem, and four accomplices allegedly targeted a 17-year-old operating a cryptocurrency venture. In December, they drove to a luxury apartment in Koreatown, Los Angeles, intending to kidnap the teenager. Upon entering the apartment, they discovered the teenager was not present, but his girlfriend was, and they reportedly found her hiding in a closet. The group restrained her using handcuffs typically issued by the LAPD and claimed to be executing a search warrant.
Confrontation with the Teen
The kidnappers awaited the return of the teenager, whom they subsequently handcuffed upon his arrival. They demanded he unlock his crypto wallet, pressuring him to comply under the threat of violence, including threats of shooting him and waterboarding. In an attempt to deceive them, the teenager initially provided access to a wallet that contained no funds. Eventually, he yielded to their demands and revealed a safe containing a thumb drive with a cryptowallet valued at $350,000. Surveillance footage reportedly captured the alleged kidnappers leaving the apartment around 25 minutes later.
Defense Claims and Legal Proceedings
Megan Maitia, Halem’s attorney, raised skepticism regarding the prosecution’s narrative, questioning how a 17-year-old could amass such significant cryptocurrency wealth. She contended that Halem was not responsible for threatening the teenager, attributing those actions to an unnamed sixth member of the group, who was perceived as particularly dangerous. Maitia also expressed concerns for Halem’s safety in the event of a conviction due to his law enforcement background. Judge Victoria Wilson of the Los Angeles County Superior Court ordered the Sheriff’s Office to ensure Halem’s safety while he awaits trial, and he has been denied bail.
Controversial Background of Gabby Ben
Ben’s defense attorney, Kellen Davis, highlighted his history of operating legitimate assisted living facilities and argued for bail, noting his compliance with court orders. However, Ben’s criminal record includes serious offenses such as opening bank accounts for fraudulent activities and deceiving elderly individuals while posing as an HVAC technician. Judge Wilson expressed concerns about the potential danger posed by both Ben and Halem, ultimately denying bail for both defendants on the grounds that they could inflict serious harm if released.
