Sheriff's Deputy Sentenced for Extorting Rivals of Self-Styled Crypto 'Godfather'
Former Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy Michael David Coberg received a 63-month federal prison sentence for conspiring with crypto entrepreneur Adam Iza, known as “Godfather,” to extort business rivals. Coberg admitted to using his law enforcement position to pressure individuals involved in financial disputes with Iza, serving as a paid security guard, adviser, and enforcer while still with the sheriff’s department. Coberg was paid at least $20,000 monthly. In one case, a victim was brought to Iza’s residence, threatened, questioned by Coberg, and coerced into transferring $127,000. Coberg and Iza orchestrated another rival’s false arrest by staging a traffic stop and planting drugs. Iza, who has pleaded guilty, faces conspiracy, wire fraud, and tax evasion charges relating to schemes generating tens of millions, including $16 million in crypto and a $37 million ad fraud. The operation allegedly relied on intimidation, false authority, and collusion with law enforcement. Iza remains in custody pending sentencing and additional kidnapping charges.
