From crypto wallets to jail cells: SafeMoon execs nabbed

The decentralized finance digital asset, SafeMoon, had promised users “locked” liquidity, a feature purported to protect investor assets. According to the indictment, Karony, Nagy, and Smith allegedly diverted these supposedly safeguarded funds for their personal benefit, even as SafeMoon’s market capitalization soared to over $8 billion.

“Although this fraud scheme may be complex, the end result is simple —theft. Investors were assured their money would be safe, while the defendants allegedly misled investors and diverted millions of dollars to line their pockets and their driveways,” said IRS Special Agent-in-Charge Thomas Fattorusso.

Karony was arrested earlier Wednesday in Provo, Utah, and Smith in Bethlehem, New Hampshire, while Nagy remains at large. The indictment alleges that, contrary to public statements, the defendants retained control over the “locked” SafeMoon liquidity pools and systematically diverted funds for their personal benefit. Additionally, the defendants are accused of using private crypto wallet addresses and pseudonymous accounts to mask their fraudulent activities.

The charges are merely allegations, and the accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty. The case is being handled by the Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section.