Roman Sterlingov, the founder of the longest operating cryptocurrency mixer on the darknet, was sentenced to 12 years and 6 months in prison by the US Department of Justice.
Details of Transactions
Sterlingov was indicted for allegedly laundering hundreds of millions of dollars worth of digital assets over a decade by operating a cryptocurrency mixer called Bitcoin Fog, according to a statement by the US Department of Justice.
Nature of the Accusations
Prosecutors allege Sterlingov used Bitcoin Fog from 2011 to 2021 to mine approximately 1.2 million Bitcoins (BTC). 
$79,504 He stated that he carried out the transaction and that these transactions were worth approximately 400 million dollars at that time.
Resources and Legal Process
U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves testified that Sterlingov supported illegal activities by operating the blender.
“Today’s sentencing makes clear that those who facilitate online payments for illegal activities will face serious sanctions. “This case also further proves that we have the skilled investigators and skilled prosecutors necessary to hold those who operate dark web sites accountable.” – Matthew M. Graves
Sterlingov was acquitted by the competent court on charges of money laundering conspiracy, unlicensed money transfer operation and unlicensed money transfer crimes.
In addition to the prison sentence, Sterlingov’s assets worth $395.5 million will be forfeited and $1.76 million worth of crypto and cash assets will be seized. He will also lose $103 million worth of assets in his Bitcoin Fog wallet of approximately 1,345 BTC.
Sterlingov’s sentence is considered an important step in the fight against online financial crime and indicates that stronger measures will be taken against such activities.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article does not constitute investment advice. Investors should be aware that crypto currencies carry high volatility and therefore risk, and should carry out their transactions in line with their own research.
