Algorithmic Ratings & Investment Analysis
©ARIA 2025
by aria-crypto.com
April 29, 2025 at 17:08
DOJ's New Crypto Enforcement Priorities May Lead to Dismissal of Samourai Wallet Charges
Recent court filings indicate that New York prosecutors are contemplating dropping charges against Samourai Wallet's co-founders, Keonne Rodriguez and William Lonergan Hill.
This comes in light of a memo from U.S. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, which outlines new enforcement priorities for the Department of Justice (DOJ).
Blanche's memo announced the disbanding of the National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team, urging prosecutors to avoid bringing cases against crypto exchanges or wallets under certain conditions.
Prosecutors and the defense requested a 16-day continuance to allow time for the government to reconsider its position regarding ongoing investigations.
Rodriguez and Hill face serious charges, including money laundering and operating an unlicensed money transmitting business, with potential sentences totaling 25 years.
The charges allege that Samourai Wallet facilitated around $2 billion in unlawful transactions from 2015 to 2024.
In stark contrast, the DOJ's recent focus appears to emphasize accountability for fraudulent activities, as demonstrated by its intention to seek a 20-year sentence for Alex Mashinsky, founder of Celsius.
Mashinsky's case underscores the increasing vigilance regarding investor protection within the cryptocurrency sector.
As the DOJ adjusts its enforcement strategy, the evolving legal landscape will likely impact future regulatory frameworks for digital assets.
Both cases illustrate a critical balance between fostering innovation and maintaining accountability in the crypto space.
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