Prisoner Pleads Guilty to Organizing Two Crypto Robbery Attempts

Robert Barr pleaded guilty to involvement in serious organized crime and arranging two 2024 robbery attempts targeting a cryptocurrency holder in Midlothian, Scotland, after the first raid produced a hardware wallet but no access to the assets.

The targeted holdings were valued at more than £2 million, including about £1 million in a cryptocurrency created by the victim. The victim’s identity and the name of the cryptocurrency were not disclosed.

The first break-in took place in January 2024. Intruders took the hardware wallet but could not use it because they did not have its PIN or recovery phrase.

Barr allegedly arranged a second attempt for April 17, 2024. Two men went to the property but left after the occupants noticed them and a video doorbell camera.

Prosecutors said the group intended to gain control of the victim’s computer and direct transfers from the hardware wallet.

In a message quoted in court, Barr wrote: “When they’re in his house gonna need get him on his PC fast n download Anydesk rapid my mate.”

David Dickson KC, the prosecutor, described Barr as the head of the organized crime group and called him “a sophisticated cybercriminal” capable of orchestrating criminal activity rarely seen in mainstream investigations.

Police seized a phone from Barr’s cell on June 25, 2024. Forensic analysis found evidence linking Barr to the schemes, prosecutors said.

Sean Favier also pleaded guilty to attending the property in an attempted robbery involving cryptocurrency assets. Judge Lord Cubie deferred sentencing for Barr and Favier while background reports were prepared. Both remained in custody.