Former Sheriff’s Deputy Sentenced for Cryptocurrency Extortion
A former sheriff’s deputy from Los Angeles County has been sentenced to over five years in prison for his involvement in an extortion scheme linked to a disreputable cryptocurrency business. Michael David Coberg, aged 44, received a 63-month sentence after admitting to aiding in the extortion of rivals while working closely with a self-proclaimed cryptocurrency mogul, often referred to as “The Godfather,” as noted by federal prosecutors.
Coberg, who held the position of deputy chief and served as a helicopter pilot, misused his position to assist Adam Isa, a 25-year-old entrepreneur engaged in dubious marketing and cryptocurrency operations, according to federal authorities.
Isa, who has been in federal custody since September 2024, is still awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty to charges related to the extortion effort. Court documents allege that Coberg utilized his badge to help Isa intimidate and target individuals labeled as adversaries in the cryptocurrency world.
In a particularly audacious incident in 2021, Coberg reportedly facilitated a fake drug arrest to intimidate one of Isa’s competitors, even enlisting the help of two other corrupt deputies from the LASD to carry out the act.
During sentencing, prosecutors stated, “Mr. Coberg swore an oath to uphold the Constitution and the laws of the United States. Instead, he misused the Badge’s profound power, betraying his oath and the very people he was sworn to protect—all for a tragically common reason: greed.”
Having pleaded guilty in September 2025, Coberg acknowledged conspiring in the blackmailing of victims and infringing upon their civil rights while clandestinely working with Isa’s operations. Additionally, a federal judge mandated that he pay $127,000 in restitution to the victims.
This case underscores significant concerns regarding the potential for law enforcement abuse, highlighting the risks that can arise when individuals in positions of power operate outside of the law.
