Deputy admits to obstructing investigation in cryptocurrency fraud case.

In recent developments concerning law enforcement misconduct in Los Angeles County, a former deputy of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) has pleaded guilty to federal charges related to an extortion scheme involving a now-incarcerated cryptocurrency entrepreneur. On March 17, Scott Simpkins, 34, of Brea, entered a guilty plea for one count of obstruction of justice in a case that has drawn considerable attention due to its connections to criminal activities within the department.

Simpkins, who was assigned to the sheriff’s Lakewood Station and served with the Special Enforcement Bureau and SWAT team, was placed on administrative leave prior to his plea. Despite being relieved of his duties, he remains on the force, as indicated by officials from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

According to court documents, Simpkins was engaged in a private security venture through Saavedra & Associates, a company co-owned by fellow LASD Deputy Eric Chase Saavedra. This private entity employed active deputies and offered security services to various clients, including 25-year-old Adam Iza, a self-proclaimed cryptocurrency investor. Iza has drawn scrutiny, having pleaded guilty in early 2025 to multiple charges including conspiracy and wire fraud.

The timeline of events suggests an alarming fusion of law enforcement and criminal undertakings. In August 2021, Iza recruited several deputies, including Simpkins, for security at a lavish party at his Bel Air mansion. The situation escalated when Iza allegedly attempted to intimidate an individual—referred to in court documents as R.C.—into transferring ,000 to him under threats involving live ammunition.

Subsequent to Iza’s arrest in September 2024 for related misconduct, an FBI investigation led to a search warrant executed on Simpkins’ property, during which his cell phone was seized. In the fallout of federal inquiries, Simpkins admitted to misleading investigators about his observations regarding Iza’s conduct, which he initially claimed not to have witnessed.

U.S. District Judge Percy Anderson has scheduled Simpkins’ sentencing for July 13, where he faces a maximum of 10 years in federal prison. The case against Simpkins reflects ongoing challenges within the LASD, as several former deputies, including Eric Saavedra and Christopher Michael Cadman, also face criminal charges and await sentencing for their roles in the extortion scheme and related offenses.

The implications of these developments extend beyond individual culpability, raising concerns about accountability and the integrity of law enforcement officials in the region. As investigations continue, the public remains watchful of the outcomes of these high-profile cases and their broader ramifications for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

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