- Tax Evasion Suspicion
- Assault Charges
- International Cooperation in Investigation
Finnish authorities are investigating allegations of gross tax evasion and assault against Richard Schueler, known in the crypto space as Richard Heart.
Tax Evasion Suspicion
Richard Schueler, the founder of Hex and PulseChain, is accused of failing to pay taxes amounting to hundreds of millions of euros between June 2, 2020, and April 2, 2024. Helsinki police, alongside international authorities, have issued a remand order for Schueler, who remains at large. The investigation started after the Finnish Tax Administration found significant discrepancies between Schueler’s declared income and their assessments, showing substantial undeclared income. Schueler’s official earnings in 2023 reportedly exceeded €15.2 million.
Assault Charges
In addition to tax charges, Schueler is also under investigation for an alleged assault that took place between February 16 and 17, 2021. Despite residing in Helsinki, Schueler’s current whereabouts remain unknown.
International Cooperation in Investigation
Schueler’s case also involves U.S. authorities, as he faces charges from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). According to Reuters, in 2023 the SEC charged Schueler with raising over $1 billion through unregistered cryptocurrency offerings and defrauding investors of $12.1 million. Finnish authorities, led by Detective Saaristola, have raised concerns about the launch and marketing of the Hex and PulseChain cryptocurrencies, prompting an investigation requested by the Finnish Tax Administration. The criminal probe is still in its early stages and involves cooperation with international agencies.
Both investigations are still in the early stages and involve complex international coordination to address the financial and criminal allegations.
