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Ex-LA Sheriff’s Deputy Gets 63 Months for Aiding ‘Crypto Godfather’ Extortion Scheme

Prosecutors call it an abuse of the badge tied to a crypto extortion network led by Adam Iza.

Overview

  • U.S. District Judge Percy Anderson sentenced Michael David Coberg to 63 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and $127,000 in restitution.
  • Coberg pleaded guilty in September 2025 to conspiracy to commit extortion and conspiracy against rights.
  • Prosecutors say Coberg was paid at least $20,000 per month by crypto entrepreneur Adam Iza while still a deputy, acting as security and an adviser.
  • Court filings describe a 2021 sham drug arrest of a rival lured from Miami and a separate episode where a victim transferred about $127,000 to Iza as Coberg stood guard.
  • Other former deputies, including Christopher Michael Cadman, have pleaded guilty, and Iza has pleaded guilty, remains in federal custody, and awaits sentencing with additional charges pending in Connecticut.