- Early Bitcoin investor Roger Ver, known as “Bitcoin Jesus,” has been arrested in Spain on U.S. charges of mail fraud, tax evasion, and filing false tax returns.
- Former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao, also known as CZ, has been sentenced to four months in prison for violating U.S. anti-money laundering laws.
- In the ongoing Ripple-SEC legal battle, XRP advocate Fred Rispoli has highlighted a potential weakness in the SEC’s case.
Top crypto news: “Bitcoin Jesus” Roger Ver arrested, former Binance CEO sentenced to prison, and potential weakness exposed in Ripple-SEC case.
“Bitcoin Jesus” Roger Ver Arrested
As reported by the U.S. Department of Justice, Roger Ver, an early Bitcoin investor and enthusiast, was arrested in Spain last weekend on U.S. charges of mail fraud, tax evasion, and filing false tax returns. The alleged loss to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) caused by Ver is estimated to be “at least $48 million.” Ver, who discovered Bitcoin in 2011 and became one of its most fervent promoters, earning him the “Bitcoin Jesus” moniker, is expected to be extradited back to the United States.
Details of the Charges
Ver gave up his U.S. citizenship in 2014, obtaining citizenship of Saint Kitts and Nevis. Despite leaving the country, he was required to pay an exit tax on capital gains from worldwide assets, including his crypto holdings. He allegedly gave false information about his U.S-based companies to his appraiser and law firm, leading to substantially less in taxes. Ver failed to inform his accountant that, in 2017, he had sold almost $240 million worth of Bitcoin from his companies. He also did not pay any taxes related to the distribution of these coins.
CZ Sentenced to Months in Prison
Former Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao, also known as CZ, was sentenced to four months in prison for violating U.S. anti-money laundering laws. Judge Richard Jones described the ruling as “appropriate” and “reasonable.” According to the judge, Zhao could have complied with U.S. laws, having the personnel and financial capabilities, but he failed to do so. With a net worth of $33 billion, CZ is set to be the richest prisoner in American history.
Details of the Sentencing
Judge Jones rejected the Department of Justice’s request to increase the sentence to three years, stating there was no evidence that Zhao was made aware of the illegal activity taking place on the exchange. Following sentencing, CZ thanked everyone for their care and support on social media.
Ripple v. SEC: XRP Advocate Exposes Key SEC Weakness
In the ongoing Ripple-SEC legal battle, XRP advocate Fred Rispoli highlighted a potential weakness in the SEC’s case. The focus of Rispoli’s analysis lies in Ripple’s motion to overturn the SEC’s expert disclosure in its briefing. He underscored an important oversight by the SEC: the failure to seek a deposition. This lack of procedure might undermine the SEC’s position, especially if some witnesses were incorrectly listed in the disclosure statement.
Conclusion
These developments highlight the increasing scrutiny and legal challenges facing the crypto industry. As the sector continues to grow and evolve, it is crucial for stakeholders to adhere to regulatory requirements to avoid potential legal repercussions.
