Hammer Attack: Former LAPD Officer Robs $350,000 in Bitcoin

The cryptocurrency industry is facing an increasing threat—not from online attacks, but from real-world violence. Criminals are using “bats” (or “$5 bats”) as a coercive tactic: using violence or threats to force cryptocurrency owners to surrender their digital assets. A recent case highlights the severity of this issue.

Crimes Hidden Behind Police Costumes

Eric Harell, a former Los Angeles police officer, along with accomplices, carried out a targeted robbery in 2024. They exploited law enforcement identities—posing as police officers—to break into a high-rise apartment. The victims were a 17-year-old and his girlfriend. The attackers pressured them, threatening with weapons, to reveal the location of a stash containing $350,000 in Bitcoin.

Harell has now been convicted of kidnapping and robbery. He faces life imprisonment, while his accomplices await trial and continue to claim innocence. This case is not isolated—it reflects a dangerous trend.

Surge in Violent Attacks

According to a report from blockchain security firm CertiK, violent attacks targeting cryptocurrency owners surged 75% in 2025. These attacks caused estimated damages of over $40.9 million worldwide. This clearly shows that criminals are increasingly aware of the value of digital assets and are willing to use violence to achieve their goals.

“Bats” attacks often target individuals with significant holdings—usually young people or those inexperienced in protecting digital assets. This tactic exploits the fact that cryptocurrencies can be transferred irreversibly, making them prime targets for theft.

Lessons for the Crypto Community

Eric Harell’s case serves as a warning to the entire cryptocurrency community. The 75% spike in violent attacks in 2025 indicates that protecting digital assets is not just a technological issue but also a matter of personal safety. “Bats” tactics can strike anyone, anytime, making community education about these risks extremely important.