Edward Zimbardi Deported From Fiji Over $165 Million Crypto Ponzi Scheme
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Aug 18
Edward Zimbardi Deported From Fiji Over $165 Million Crypto Ponzi Scheme
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Aug 18
Summary
Edward Zimbardi, 59, was deported from Fiji to the US to face Georgia charges that he defrauded more than 6,000 investors in a $165 million cryptocurrency Ponzi scheme.
Prosecutors said he sold “The Crypto Program” on a guaranteed 25% monthly return from a $550 investment, but instead lost tens of millions on foreign-exchange bets and spent at least $10 million on personal expenses.
The indictment charges 12 counts of wire fraud, 12 counts of money laundering and one money-laundering conspiracy count tied to conduct that allegedly ran from June 2022 to August 2023.
Investigators said Zimbardi fled to Fiji in July 2025 after learning the FBI was scrutinizing him and even skipped his son’s Virginia wedding to avoid arrest before agents escorted him back through Los Angeles.
US prosecutors said victims were spread worldwide, underscoring the cross-border reach of crypto fraud cases and the need for international cooperation to bring suspects back to court.