Ethereum Foundation Backs Roman Storm with $500,000 for Legal Defense
In a significant move to uphold privacy rights and the legitimacy of coding, the Ethereum Foundation (EF) has pledged substantial financial support to Roman Storm, the co-founder of Tornado Cash. Facing serious legal charges in the United States, Storm is accused of operating a cryptocurrency mixer without proper authorization.
Privacy Advocacy and Legal Support from Ethereum Foundation
On June 13, the Ethereum Foundation took to the X platform to declare its commitment to defending Storm by donating a hefty sum of $500,000. The foundation further announced its willingness to match donations up to an additional $750,000 from the broader cryptocurrency community. This initiative reflects the Foundation’s firm stance on the belief that privacy is a norm and that coding should not be criminalized.
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Impending Legal Battle and Potential Consequences
The trial, scheduled to commence in New York on July 14, places Storm in a challenging position as he confronts allegations of conspiracy to commit money laundering, breach of U.S. sanctions, and operating an unlicensed money-transmitting business. A conviction on all counts could result in a prison sentence of up to 45 years. Despite efforts by his legal team to have these charges dismissed, Storm’s fight for justice continues, with an estimated $2 million needed for his defense.
Community and Personal Appeals on Social Media
In a heartfelt message on the social media platform X, Storm reached out to the cryptocurrency community for support. He expressed his concern that a loss in this legal battle would signify a broader setback for decentralized finance (DeFi) and the pursuit of financial independence.
“If I lose, DeFi dies with me. The dream of financial freedom, the code I believed in—it all fades into darkness. I’m fighting, but the weight is unbearable. This isn’t just my end; it’s ours,” Storm passionately stated.
Gratitude Towards the Ethereum Foundation
Storm also conveyed deep appreciation to the Ethereum Foundation for its financial assistance. “Your support means the world to me, especially standing up for privacy and the right to code. I’m so grateful to everyone chipping in—your generosity is truly inspiring! Thanks from the bottom of my heart,” he wrote.
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