A former Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy has been sentenced to 63 months in federal prison for conspiring with self-styled crypto 'Godfather' Adam Iza to extort rivals through intimidation and misuse of law enforcement power.
Michael David Coberg admitted to leveraging his badge to pressure individuals in financial disputes involving Iza, breaking his oath for personal gain. Prosecutors said he was paid at least $20,000 monthly while still on active duty.
One victim transferred $127,000 from a Bank of America account during a meeting at Iza’s Bel Air home, where firearms were displayed and Coberg identified himself as an officer.
Another scheme involved orchestrating a false arrest: Iza and Coberg coordinated a traffic stop in Los Angeles where drugs were planted, then recorded the arrest from their car and mocked the victim.
Adam Iza, who portrayed himself as a powerful crypto kingpin, pleaded guilty to conspiracy, wire fraud, and tax evasion in a $37 million fraud operation. He faces additional kidnapping charges in Connecticut. Federal authorities say the schemes generated millions in crypto and cash.