US Government Clarifies Stance on Forfeited Samourai Bitcoin
A White House crypto advisor has confirmed that the US government has not sold any Bitcoin forfeited in the Samourai Wallet case, dispelling market rumors sparked by recent on-chain activity. The clarification comes after a 57.5 BTC transfer raised questions about the government’s intentions regarding the seized assets.
Key Facts and Implications
The US Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed that the forfeited Bitcoin will remain part of the US Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, as per Executive Order 14233. This order, signed by President Donald Trump, requires that any Bitcoin obtained through criminal or civil forfeiture be retained for the reserve, rather than being sold. The clarification was provided by Patrick Witt, executive director of the White House President’s Council of Advisors for Digital Assets, who stated that the assets were neither liquidated nor earmarked for sale.
The forfeited Bitcoin, valued at over $31 billion at current prices, includes 127,271 BTC seized from a Cambodia-based entity accused of running a pig-butchering investment scam. The US government is one of the world’s largest Bitcoin holders, with a total of 328,372 BTC under its control, according to data from Bitcoin Treasuries.
Trump Signals Possible Pardon for Samourai Wallet Developer
Two developers behind Samourai Wallet, Keonne Rodriguez and Hill, were sentenced to prison in November for their role in processing over $237 million in criminal proceeds. However, in a recent statement, President Trump expressed his willingness to consider pardoning Rodriguez, citing concerns about the prosecution. This move has sparked debate about the use of lawfare and the weaponization of the Justice Department under the Biden administration.
Rodriguez has welcomed the possibility of a pardon, arguing that the prosecution was unjust and that he is a victim of political persecution. The case has drawn attention to the complexities of cryptocurrency regulation and the need for clear guidelines on the use of digital assets.
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