Fugitive Crypto Scam Leader Sentenced to 20 Years for $73M Fraud

Fugitive Crypto Scam Leader Sentenced to 20 Years for $73M Fraud

First seen 11 Feb 2026, 12:26 UTC •ScworldBleepingcomputerTradingviewCoindeskThecyberexpress+1 •34.8

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Daren Li, a 42-year-old dual national of China and St. Kitts and Nevis, has been sentenced in absentia to 20 years in prison for orchestrating a $73 million cryptocurrency scam that targeted American victims. The scheme, known as 'pig butchering,' involved building trust through messaging apps and dating platforms before defrauding individuals of their savings. Li remains a fugitive after fleeing in December 2025.

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Timeline

2025-12-01
Daren Li cuts off electronic ankle monitor and flees
2026-02-11
Daren Li sentenced to 20 years in prison in absentia
Date unknown
Li's $73 million cryptocurrency scam operation begins

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