The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced charges against two individuals for allegedly running Empire Market, a dark web marketplace that facilitated the anonymous sale of illegal goods and services valued at over $430 million.
The investigation, led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New York in collaboration with law enforcement partners, targeted Thomas Pavey, also known as "Dopenugget, " and Raheim Hamilton, known online as "Sydney" and "Zero Angel. " According to the indictment, Pavey and Hamilton operated Empire Market from 2018 to 2020, enabling roughly four million transactions between vendors and buyers. These transactions reportedly involved a staggering sum exceeding $430 million.
The charges against Pavey and Hamilton encompass a range of serious offenses, including conspiracy to distribute narcotics, computer fraud, and money laundering. If convicted, they face the possibility of life imprisonment.
Authorities allege that Empire Market served as a platform for the illicit trade of various controlled substances, including heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. The marketplace also offered a haven for the sale of stolen identities, hacking tools, and counterfeit goods.
DHS officials emphasized their commitment to disrupting criminal activity on the dark web. "This case demonstrates our unwavering resolve to dismantle these online havens for criminal activity, " said HSI New York Special Agent in Charge Ivan J. Arvelo. "HSI, along with our law enforcement partners, will relentlessly pursue those who exploit the dark web to facilitate the sale of illegal drugs and other illicit goods. "
The takedown of Empire Market reflects a broader effort by law enforcement agencies around the world to combat the proliferation of illegal activity on the dark web. These anonymous marketplaces pose a significant challenge, as they offer a cloak of anonymity for both buyers and sellers. However, the HSI-led investigation demonstrates that law enforcement can leverage sophisticated techniques to identify and prosecute the individuals behind these operations.
In addition to the criminal charges, authorities revealed the seizure of cryptocurrency valued at approximately $75 million during the investigation. The seized funds represent a fraction of the illicit transactions that allegedly transpired on Empire Market. Further asset forfeiture proceedings are expected.
The Empire Market case serves as a stark reminder of the persistent dangers associated with the dark web. While it provides a platform for legitimate activities, it also attracts criminals seeking to conduct illegal transactions. Law enforcement agencies are actively working to disrupt these activities and bring those responsible to justice.