SafeMoon’s Ex-CEO Convicted in $200M Crypto Fraud

Braden Karony, the former CEO of SafeMoon, was convicted on May 21, 2025, by a federal jury in Brooklyn for a $200 million crypto fraud scheme.

The conviction of Braden Karony disrupts SafeMoon, raising questions on crypto industry regulation and investor trust.

Following a federal jury verdict, Braden Karony was found guilty of conspiracy, wire fraud, and money laundering. The conviction came after evidence showed misappropriation of $40 million from SafeMoon’s liquidity pools.

Key figures in the case include Braden Karony and former CTO Thomas Smith, who testified against Karony after a plea deal. The fraudulent scheme involved the misuse of SafeMoon funds for personal luxuries and investments.

“Karony lined his driveways with sports cars while deceiving millions. We tracked his crypto movements and exposed the scheme for what it was — outright theft.” — Harry T. Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, IRS-CI

The conviction has immediate ramifications for the confidence in crypto investments. SafeMoon’s reputation has been damaged, affecting investor confidence and market stability. Thomas Smith’s cooperation with authorities further exposed the internal vulnerabilities.

The case signifies the need for tighter crypto regulations globally. The collaboration of authorities from multiple countries emphasizes the international scope of such crimes. Karony faces a potential 45-year prison sentence, illustrating the severe consequences of crypto fraud.

Braden Karony’s conviction may lead to enhanced regulatory scrutiny in the crypto sector. This incident adds to the historical precedent of addressing fraudulent activities through international cooperation. Enhanced compliance measures and technological innovation might be needed to rebuild market trust.