Crypto Trader’s Greed Leads to Murder: Son Sentenced to 25 Years for Killing His Mother

A shocking case of greed and deception has come to a close as Andre Zachary Rebelo, a cryptocurrency trader from Perth, was sentenced to 25 years in prison for the murder of his mother. Rebelo, 30, killed his mother, Colleen Rebelo, in 2020 as part of a calculated scheme to claim her life insurance policy. The community remains stunned as the court labeled the crime a deliberate and heartless act of betrayal.

A Crime Motivated by Financial Desperation

Despite portraying a life of wealth and success online, Rebelo was drowning in financial trouble. The court heard that he had been involved in fraudulent activities long before the murder, including forging documents and engaging in suspicious crypto transactions. His desperation for money ultimately led him to take the life of the woman who had raised him.

Investigators revealed that Rebelo manipulated documents to make it seem as though his mother had changed her insurance details, naming him as the sole beneficiary. After her death, he attempted to collect a $1.15 million payout, but inconsistencies in the paperwork raised red flags, leading to an investigation that ultimately unraveled the horrifying truth.

A Staged Death and a Web of Lies

On the day of the murder, Rebelo carefully staged the scene to make it appear as though his mother had died of natural causes. He then contacted authorities, pretending to be a grieving son. However, further investigation into his phone records, financial dealings, and past behavior revealed a dark history of deceit.

Rebelo’s partner at the time, a well-known influencer, was reportedly unaware of his financial troubles and criminal activities. He had been presenting a façade of wealth, claiming to be successful in cryptocurrency trading, when in reality, his financial empire was built on lies.

The Court’s Verdict: A Ruthless Betrayal

During sentencing, the judge described the crime as an “ultimate betrayal,” emphasizing that Rebelo had not only killed his own mother for financial gain but also continued to cover up his actions through lies and deception. The prosecution highlighted his complete lack of remorse, arguing that he viewed his mother as nothing more than a financial opportunity.

Rebelo was sentenced to 25 years in prison, with no chance of parole for 18 years. His sentencing marks the end of a case that has horrified the public, serving as a grim reminder of how greed can drive people to commit unimaginable crimes.

Community Shock and Reflection

The case has left a lasting impact on the Perth community, with many struggling to comprehend how a son could take his mother’s life for money. Colleen Rebelo, described as a kind and loving woman, was deeply cherished by those who knew her. Her tragic death stands as a stark warning about the dangers of financial desperation and deception.