The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is considering dropping the case against the founders of the banned Bitcoin mixer Samourai Wallet, following a request for a 16-day extension to assess the situation. After the DOJ's recent indication that it will not pursue criminal charges against crypto mixers or users unless involved in serious misconduct, the defendants are hopeful for a dismissal. The case gained attention after the arrest of Samourai Wallet founders, Keonne Rodriguez and William Lonergan Hill, last year. The app allowed users to obscure their Bitcoin transactions but faced scrutiny similar to another crypto mixer, Tornado Cash, which was previously sanctioned by U.S. authorities for alleged money laundering. The recent shift in the DOJ's approach signals a changing landscape for crypto regulations under the current administration, which is perceived as more sympathetic to cryptocurrency. In light of this, advocates argue for the civil liberties of crypto users and the importance of privacy in financial transactions, stirring discussions about the role of Bitcoin in privacy protection.

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