Roger Ver, a prominent figure in the cryptocurrency world and early Bitcoin investor, is currently fighting tax evasion charges in the US. Known affectionately as ‘Bitcoin Jesus’ by his 745,000 followers on X (formerly Twitter), Ver is contesting allegations of evading over $48 million in taxes and filing a false tax return.
The 45-year-old was taken into custody in February while attending a crypto conference in Barcelona. The charges stem from the sale of $240 million worth of cryptocurrencies and an “exit tax” related to Ver’s decision to renounce his US citizenship in 2014. Prosecutors are pushing for his extradition from Spain, where he is awaiting a court ruling.
Ver and his legal team are arguing that the indictment is politically motivated, suggesting that it reflects the Biden administration’s aggressive stance on cryptocurrency regulation. They believe that the charges are part of a broader strategy to control the sector through enforcement actions rather than clear policy guidelines.
The case has sparked widespread interest within the cryptocurrency industry, with critics accusing the US government of targeting high-profile figures in the crypto space to send a message. Author Bret Weinstein took to X (formerly Twitter) to defend Ver, stating, “His crime? He didn’t commit one, but that doesn’t matter in the age of American Lawfare. What Roger did do was promote a revolutionary decentralizing technology that radically empowers citizens.”
Ver has been a vocal critic of US crypto regulation, advocating for decentralized financial systems and the widespread adoption of Bitcoin as a global currency. Despite his efforts, the government has successfully prosecuted several prominent figures in the crypto industry over the past year. Former Celsius CEO Alex Mashinsky recently pleaded guilty to multiple fraud charges, and all major affiliates of Sam Bankman-Fried linked to the FTX collapse have also been prosecuted.
Nicknamed “Bitcoin Jesus,” Ver played a pivotal role in promoting Bitcoin when its value was less than $1. He was known for giving away BTC to encourage adoption and has invested in leading crypto companies such as Ripple Labs, BitPay, and Kraken.
Originally from the US, Ver relocated to Japan in 2006 and became a citizen of Saint Kitts and Nevis in 2014 after renouncing his American citizenship. His arrest in Spain earlier this year has reignited discussions on US cryptocurrency regulations and the treatment of industry pioneers. This is not his first legal battle, as Ver has previously faced lawsuits from crypto companies like Genesis and ConFLEX.
As the cryptocurrency industry continues to evolve, Ver’s case highlights the challenges and complexities faced by those at the forefront of this rapidly changing landscape. Stay tuned for updates on his legal proceedings and the implications for the wider crypto community.