Los Angeles, California – In a case that casts a long shadow over the integrity of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, two former deputies have admitted in court to abusing their law enforcement powers while moonlighting as private enforcers for off-duty clients — including a self-styled cryptocurrency mogul who dubbed himself “The Godfather.”
Federal prosecutors announced Monday that Deputy David Anthony Rodriguez, 43, of La Verne, pleaded guilty to conspiracy against rights. His co-defendant, Deputy Christopher Michael Cadman, 33, of Fullerton, has agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy and filing a false tax return. Both men now face lengthy prison terms for participating in intimidation, illegal surveillance, and financial coercion operations while on the department’s payroll.
The deputies were allegedly working under the direction of Adam Iza, a 24-year-old Beverly Hills-based crypto entrepreneur who pleaded guilty earlier this year to wire fraud, tax evasion, and conspiracy. Prosecutors say Iza operated his company — and his life — like a crime syndicate, using his hired law enforcement muscle to threaten rivals and manipulate victims into compliance…