Empire Market Co-Creator Sentenced to 40 Years Over $430M Dark Web Bazaar
Summary
Raheim Hamilton, co-creator of darknet marketplace Empire Market, was sentenced to 40 years in prison and fined $5 million after pleading guilty to drug conspiracy. From 2018 to 2020, Empire Market facilitated more than four million transactions worth over $430 million, including nearly $375 million in drug sales. The site required cryptocurrency payments and encouraged users to mix funds. Hamilton agreed to forfeit about 1,230 BTC, 24.4 ETH and three Virginia properties. Co-creator Thomas Pavey has also pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing.
