Sergei Potapenko and Ivan Turõgin, the Estonian co-founders of the crypto mining firm HashFlare, have reportedly been ordered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to leave the U.S. immediately, despite a court order requiring them to remain in King County, Washington. Their attorneys received communication from DHS stating they would face law enforcement action if they failed to comply. This directive contradicts a previous court ruling, heightening fears among the defendants, who note inaccuracies in immigration authority actions. The duo has previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud regarding the fraudulent sale of crypto mining contracts, with a plea deal involving the forfeiture of $400 million in assets. Following their arrest in November 2022, they have been under strict conditions including a stay in the U.S. until their sentencing in August 2025. Their lawyers are currently seeking to resolve the DHS issue, emphasizing their compliance with legal orders.

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