05 July 2022, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Rottweil: A Ledger Nano S hardware wallet displays the term Bitcoin beside a symbolic Bitcoin coin. Photo: Silas Stein/dpa (Photo by Silas Stein/picture alliance via Getty Images)
ASHBURN, Va. – A former FBI agent from Northern Virginia has admitted guilt to charges of wire fraud and money laundering linked to a cryptocurrency theft operation, as stated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Virginia.
Key details:
Patrick Steven Yaroch, a 37-year-old resident of Ashburn, served in the FBI’s Boston Division from 2017 until early 2025. Subsequently, he was appointed to the Counterintelligence and Espionage Division, where he remained until July 2026. During his tenure, he had access to FBI databases that contained cryptocurrency information obtained through investigations.
In December 2024, he exploited his role to pilfer cryptocurrency wallets from individuals under investigation. Court documents reveal that at least one wallet was set up by the FBI for operational purposes.
Court records indicate that during his fraudulent activities, Yaroch executed nearly 100 unauthorized transfers associated with 35 different FBI investigations, unlawfully acquiring close to $2.5 million. He switched these funds for alternative cryptocurrencies and subsequently laundered them via various financial transactions.
From November 2025 to January 2026, Yaroch moved almost $93,082 into one of his accounts and shuffled the funds through various other accounts, as per court documents. He made multiple payments from these accounts to settle debts, including those for car loans and credit cards.
Also noted in court paperwork, Yaroch planned to use his ill-gotten gains to create a new life overseas. He consulted ChatGPT about optimizing investments and potential places to reside in Europe. Following a suggestion to purchase a vineyard in Portugal, he began the process of registering with the Portuguese Tax and Customs Authority to secure a tax ID. Travel plans to Portugal were made for September 2026.
Authorities highlighted that Yaroch’s misconduct jeopardized several ongoing FBI investigations.
His sentencing is set for March 4, 2027, where he faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
Source: The information in this article comes from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Eastern Virginia.