Two individuals, Thomas Pavey and Raheim Hamilton, have been formally accused in federal court in Chicago for their alleged operation of “Empire Market,” a dark web platform.
The charges stem from their management of this marketplace between 2018 and 2020, where they purportedly facilitated over $430 million in illicit transactions worldwide.
Thomas Pavey, known as “Dopenugget,” resides in Ormond Beach, Florida, while Raheim Hamilton, also recognized as “Sydney” and “Zero Angel,” lives in Suffolk, Virginia. They are facing serious charges outlined in an indictment that includes allegations of conspiring to traffic drugs, commit computer fraud, engage in access device fraud, counterfeit currency, and launder money. If convicted, they could potentially receive a life sentence.
According to law enforcement, Pavey and Hamilton previously collaborated on selling fake U.S. currency through AlphaBay, a dark web platform shut down in 2017. Allegedly, they later launched Empire Market in 2018, using specialized software and a “.onion” web address to facilitate anonymous transactions for thousands of vendors and buyers.
The marketplace allegedly facilitated the sale of illegal items such as heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, LSD, counterfeit money, and stolen credit card information.
During the investigation, authorities seized significant assets, including $75 million in cryptocurrency, as well as cash and precious metals.
It’s crucial to emphasize that an indictment is not proof of guilt, and both Pavey and Hamilton are presumed innocent until proven otherwise in a court of law. Arraignments for the defendants in Chicago have not yet been scheduled.