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Roger Ver Arrested in Spain
Roger Ver, an early investor in Bitcoin-related startups known as “Bitcoin Jesus,” has been arrested in Spain and charged with tax fraud. The U.S. Department of Justice unsealed an indictment charging Ver with mail fraud, tax evasion, and filing false tax returns.
Charges and Arrest
The authorities have arrested Ver in Spain based on the U.S. criminal charges. The next steps will involve the U.S. applying to extradite Ver to stand trial in America. The authorities estimate Ver is alleged to have caused a loss to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of at least $48 million.
Extradition Process
The U.S. authorities will be applying to extradite Ver to face trial in the United States. The IRS Criminal Investigation’s cybercrimes unit is actively investigating the case.
Background of Roger Ver
Ver, widely known as “Bitcoin Jesus,” renounced his U.S. citizenship and obtained citizenship in St. Kitts and Nevis. Originally from Santa Clara, California, he owned several U.S.-listed businesses such as MemoryDealers.com and Agilestar.com. Ver allegedly started acquiring Bitcoins for himself and his companies in 2011.
Allegations of Tax Evasion
The indictment claims that in November 2017, Ver sold tens of thousands of bitcoins on cryptocurrency exchanges for approximately $240 million in cash. Despite giving up his U.S. citizenship, Ver was legally required to report to the IRS and pay taxes on certain distributions, such as dividends from his U.S. corporations.
The U.S. Department of Justice stated that Ver was obligated under U.S. law to file tax returns reporting capital gains from the sale of his worldwide assets, including Bitcoins, and pay an “exit tax” on capital gains.
Ian is a cryptocurrency enthusiast blending humor with professionalism. With an engineering background and a storyteller's heart, he simplifies the blockchain world with sharp analysis and a touch of wit. At Cryptowire, he brings his unique perspective to make digital financial innovation accessible to all.
