Scottish Prisoner Sentenced to 8 Years Over $2.7 Million Crypto Theft Plot Run From Jail

A Scottish cybercriminal has received an eight-year prison sentence for orchestrating an attempted cryptocurrency theft worth approximately $2.7 million while already behind bars. Robert Barr directed accomplices to target a cryptocurrency investor and gain access to his digital assets through remote-control software.

The High Court in Glasgow sentenced Barr on November 10, 2026, alongside two accomplices involved in the operation. The case highlights how organized criminals increasingly combine physical intimidation with sophisticated cryptocurrency theft techniques.

Crypto Theft Scheme Directed From Prison

Barr organized the operation while serving a previous prison sentence at HMP Edinburgh in Scotland. Investigators discovered that he used unauthorized communications to coordinate criminal activities and provide technical instructions to accomplices outside prison.

The group targeted a cryptocurrency investor in Midlothian, Scotland, whose digital assets were believed to be worth up to £2 million. Prosecutors established that the operation involved months of preparation, including surveillance, identifying the victim’s residence, and planning how to access cryptocurrency wallets.

Barr instructed accomplices to enter the victim’s home and force him to install AnyDesk, a legitimate remote-access application. Once installed, the software would allow Barr to control the victim’s computer remotely and transfer cryptocurrency into wallets under his control.

Homeowners Prevent Attempted Crypto Robbery

The operation reached a critical stage on April 17, 2024, when accomplices Sean Favier and Iain Doyle approached the targeted property around 11:30 p.m. Both men wore dark clothing and concealed their faces while attempting to gain entry.

However, the homeowners noticed the suspicious visitors through their video doorbell system and refused to open the door. The suspects subsequently left without entering the property, preventing the planned cryptocurrency theft.

Investigators later examined Barr’s phone and uncovered communications detailing his involvement in coordinating the operation. The evidence also revealed instructions concerning remote-access software and the transfer of cryptocurrency.

Court Imposes Prison Sentences

Lord Cubie sentenced Barr to eight years in prison after considering his leadership role and previous cryptocurrency-related fraud conviction. Favier received four years, while Doyle received five years for their participation in the attempted theft.

All three defendants pleaded guilty to involvement in serious organized crime. The court emphasized that the unsuccessful operation involved substantial planning, potential violence, and an attempt to steal significant digital assets.

The case underscores the growing security challenges facing cryptocurrency investors, particularly those holding substantial assets. It also demonstrates how criminals can combine traditional home invasion tactics with digital tools to target cryptocurrency wallets.