AI Market Logo
Login Sign Up
BTC $43,552.88 -0.46%
ETH $2,637.32 +1.23%
BNB $312.45 +0.87%
SOL $92.40 +1.16%
XRP $0.5234 -0.32%
ADA $0.8004 +3.54%
AVAX $32.11 +1.93%
DOT $19.37 -1.45%
MATIC $0.8923 +2.67%
LINK $14.56 +0.94%
HAIA $0.1250 +2.15%
BTC $43,552.88 -0.46%
ETH $2,637.32 +1.23%
BNB $312.45 +0.87%
SOL $92.40 +1.16%
XRP $0.5234 -0.32%
ADA $0.8004 +3.54%
AVAX $32.11 +1.93%
DOT $19.37 -1.45%
MATIC $0.8923 +2.67%
LINK $14.56 +0.94%
HAIA $0.1250 +2.15%
Houston man admits guilt in 2017 JASTBITME crypto-Ponzi operation
cryptocurrency

Houston man admits guilt in 2017 JASTBITME crypto-Ponzi operation

Samuel Ayala-Ibarra admits guilt in running a crypto Ponzi scheme using fake documents to defraud investors in Houston.

August 6, 2025
5 min read
Ahmed Humble

Samuel Ayala-Ibarra admits guilt in running a crypto Ponzi scheme using fake documents to defraud investors in Houston.

Houston Man Pleads Guilty to 2017 JASTBITME Cryptocurrency Ponzi Scheme

A Houston man is facing up to 20 years in prison for operating a fraudulent cryptocurrency investment scheme. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas, 45-year-old Samuel Ayala-Ibarra pleaded guilty to running JASTBITME, a Houston-based company that promised investors high returns on cryptocurrency investments. Court records reveal that Ayala-Ibarra created fake documents to show fabricated growth and returns, which he used to encourage clients to reinvest their money. However, prosecutors stated that the funds invested by clients were actually used for Ayala-Ibarra's personal expenses and to pay returns to earlier investors, a classic Ponzi scheme tactic. Additionally, he paid others to recruit new clients into the scheme. Ayala-Ibarra is scheduled to be sentenced on November 3. He faces up to 20 years in federal prison and fines of up to $250,000 for each of the three counts of wire fraud he pleaded guilty to. Until sentencing, he remains in custody.
Source: Originally published at Click2Houston on August 6, 2025.

FAQ

What was the JASTBITME scheme?

JASTBITME was a fraudulent cryptocurrency investment scheme operated by Samuel Ayala-Ibarra. The company promised high returns on cryptocurrency investments but, in reality, used investor funds for personal expenses and to pay earlier investors, characteristic of a Ponzi scheme.

What charges does Samuel Ayala-Ibarra face?

Samuel Ayala-Ibarra pleaded guilty to three counts of wire fraud. He faces a potential sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison and fines of up to $250,000 for each count.

How did the JASTBITME Ponzi scheme operate?

Ayala-Ibarra created fake documents to display fabricated growth and returns, encouraging clients to reinvest. The funds were then diverted for his personal use and to pay existing investors. He also hired individuals to recruit new clients.

Crypto Market AI's Take

This case highlights the persistent risks associated with fraudulent schemes in the volatile cryptocurrency market. Investors are often lured by promises of high, guaranteed returns, which is a significant red flag. At AI Crypto Market, we emphasize the importance of due diligence and caution against any investment promising unrealistic profits. Our platform leverages AI for market analysis and provides educational resources to help users understand the inherent risks in cryptocurrency investments and how to navigate them safely. For those seeking to understand the fundamentals of cryptocurrency and safe trading practices, our Guides Hub offers comprehensive information.

More to Read: