Roger Ver, known as 'Bitcoin Jesus,' has reached out to former President Donald Trump for assistance in his legal battle, facing an extradition threat from Spain to the U.S. on federal charges.
A Storied Career in Crypto
In 2011, Roger Ver discovered Bitcoin when its price was less than $1. Attracted by its potential to disrupt traditional financial systems, he quickly invested heavily in Bitcoin and helped establish notable companies like Blockchain.com, Kraken, and Ripple. His early advocacy earned him the nickname 'Bitcoin Jesus.' In 2017, Ver became a supporter of Bitcoin Cash (BCH), believing it addressed the original vision of Bitcoin with faster transaction speeds and lower fees.
Facing Legal Charges and Extradition
In 2022, Ver faced charges from U.S. authorities for fraud, tax evasion, and filing false tax returns. Allegedly, Ver failed to report income from Bitcoin sales in 2017 and undervalued his assets. His actions reportedly resulted in a loss of at least $48 million to the IRS. Ver was arrested in Spain and released on bail, required to stay in the country, surrendering his passport and appearing in court every two days.
Trump’s Influence and Possible Pardon
Ver's appeal to Trump might seem bold, but it's not without precedent. Donald Trump has previously pardoned Ross Ulbricht, the founder of Silk Road. Trump's activity in cryptocurrency fuels speculation about a possible pardon for Ver, given his significant role in the industry.
Roger Ver continues to navigate legal challenges, and his future remains uncertain. His outreach to influential figures like Trump demonstrates the gravity of his quest for protection.
