Teens, minors among 25 suspects charged in French crypto abduction cases

French prosecutors have charged 25 suspects between the ages of 16 and 23 in relation to a wave of recent violent attacks targeting the crypto-wealthy, according to local media reports. 

The investigation centered on the May 13 attack of the daughter, husband, and grandson of Paymium CEO Pierre Noizat, prosecutors said. The attack, which was carried out by four armed men in broad daylight, was foiled after bystanders rushed to help the attacked trio and the men fled. The three victims were treated at a hospital for light injuries. 

The probe also covers at least two other unsuccessful plots, French paper Le Monde reported , citing prosecutors. Sources close to the case told Le Monde that the charged parties include "subordinates" and more senior "logistics" figures, but not the chief instigators of the attacks. The charged youngsters were largely "lured by money and then caught up in a situation that is beyond them," a defense attorney told Le Monde. 

The attacks have made international news in recent weeks and have sparked a response from senior government officials, including France's interior minister, who met with leaders of the cryptocurrency industry to address the recent attacks. 

"We must jointly take measures to protect [crypto business people]," the minister, Bruno Retailleau said . "But we will also find the perpetrators wherever they may be, perhaps even abroad."

Similar attacks have taken place in recent months in the U.K. , the United States , and other territories around the world. A crowdsourced tracker has tallied up 29 reports of violent attacks targeting the crypto-wealthy since the start of the year, on track to surpass the 34 that were recorded over the entirety of 2024.