“Bitcoin Jesus” Roger Ver Arrested on Fraud Charges: DOJ Seeks Extradition
Roger Ver, once known as “Bitcoin Jesus” for his early investments in the cryptocurrency, is now facing charges of fraud. The 45-year-old was arrested in Spain and is accused of mail fraud, tax evasion, and filing false tax returns.
Ver, who renounced his U.S. citizenship in 2014, allegedly failed to report his ownership of over 130,000 bitcoins held by his companies. He is accused of undervaluing his assets and not paying taxes on the profits from selling the cryptocurrency.
If convicted, Ver could face up to 20 years in federal prison for each count of mail fraud, up to five years for tax evasion, and up to three years for filing false tax returns. The case is being investigated by the IRS.
Despite his legal troubles, Bitcoin continues to rise in value, with a single coin now worth over $60,000. Ver’s story serves as a cautionary tale for investors in the volatile world of cryptocurrency.
