French authorities successfully rescued Ledger co-founder Dave Balland and his wife after a harrowing kidnapping ordeal. The couple was abducted from their home earlier this week.
The Kidnapping and Ransom Demand
The kidnappers contacted another Ledger founder, demanding a substantial cryptocurrency ransom for the couple’s release. A photo showing Balland’s injured hand was reportedly used to pressure Ledger into paying.
The Rescue and Aftermath
Police located Balland approximately 30 miles from his home on Wednesday. His wife was found unharmed a day later, about 80 miles away, tied up in a car. Balland required hospitalization due to injuries sustained during the kidnapping. Authorities confirmed that part of the ransom was paid, but they tracked, froze, and seized the cryptocurrency.
Arrests and Charges
Ten suspects, nine men and one woman aged 20-40, were arrested and are being questioned. Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau stated that the charges of kidnapping, torture, and armed extortion carry potential life sentences.
Ledger’s Response
Ledger CEO Pascal Gauthier expressed relief at the couple’s safe return, praising law enforcement’s swift action. He emphasized the company’s priority was to cooperate with the investigation.
