Bitcoin Jesus Arrested for Tax Evasion
Early investor in bitcoins dubbed 'Bitcoin Jesus' arrested in Spain on U.S. charges of tax evasion totaling at least $48 million. Roger Ver renounced U.S. citizenship in 2014 after acquiring 131,000 bitcoins valued at over $114 million. Prosecutors allege he provided false information to undervalue his companies and bitcoins, depriving the IRS of $48 million in taxes.
Key Points
- Roger Ver, early bitcoin investor, arrested in Spain for evading over $48 million in taxes.
- Ver renounced U.S. citizenship in 2014 after acquiring 131,000 bitcoins valued at $114 million.
- Prosecutors claim Ver undervalued his companies and bitcoins to evade taxes from 2014 to 2017.
- Ver is accused of failing to pay taxes on distributions from his U.S. companies.
- Justice Department plans to seek Ver's extradition to the U.S.
Pros
- Prosecutors are taking action against tax evasion in the cryptocurrency industry.
- Justice Department plans to seek extradition of Roger Ver, showing commitment to pursuing tax offenders.
Cons
- Roger Ver faces serious charges of mail fraud and tax evasion.
- Allegations suggest Ver provided misleading information to undervalue assets and evade taxes.