Empire Market Co-Creator Sentenced to 40 Years Over $430M Dark Web Bazaar
60-second summary
Thomas Pavey, co‑creator of the Empire Market dark‑web bazaar, faces a 40‑year federal sentence after prosecutors reveal the platform facilitated $430 million in illicit trades. His partner Raheim Hamilton already forfeited roughly 1,230 BTC, while Pavey must surrender about 1,584 BTC this month. The harsh penalties signal intensified regulatory pressure on crypto‑based illegal marketplaces.
Raheim Hamilton forfeited some 1,230 BTC. His co-creator Thomas Pavey, who agreed to forfeit 1,584 BTC, is due to be sentenced this month.