A 33-year-old Serbian man has been extradited to the United States to face charges of running a criminal darknet narcotics marketplace called "Monopoly Market."
Milomir Desnica is accused of facilitating $18 million in illegal drug transactions through his website, which was active from 2019 to 2022.
How Did Law Enforcement Catch Desnica?
Desnica was arrested in Austria in November 2022 after an international law enforcement operation codenamed "SpecTor" seized Monopoly Market's hosting server and analyzed data retrieved from the server. This data included records of the narcotics sales facilitated by Monopoly, financial records documenting cryptocurrency payments on Monopoly, an online forum associated with Monopoly, communications from the Monopoly operator to vendors, commission payment invoices, and more.
What Are the Charges Against Desnica?
Desnica is facing one count for conspiracy to distribute and possess methamphetamine and one count of conspiracy to launder monetary instruments. The methamphetamine charge carries a maximum sentence of life in prison, while the money laundering charge carries a maximum term of 20 years.
What Happens Next?
Desnica will be arraigned in federal court in the Northern District of California. If convicted, he could face up to life in prison and would have to forfeit any property linked to his criminal activity.
Authorities Warn of Darknet Drug Marketplaces
The arrest of Milomir Desnica is a reminder of the dangers of darknet drug marketplaces. These websites offer a cloak of anonymity for buyers and sellers, making it difficult for law enforcement to track down and prosecute criminals.
If you are considering buying drugs from a darknet marketplace, be aware of the risks. You could be buying counterfeit drugs that could be dangerous, or you could be putting yourself at risk of being caught by law enforcement.
There are safer ways to get drugs, such as through a trusted friend or a medical professional. If you are struggling with addiction, there are also resources available to help you get treatment.
