The Ethereum Foundation has offered to match up to another $500,000 in donations to support Tornado Cash Co-founder Roman Storm’s legal defense.
“Privacy is normal, and writing code is not a crime,” Ethereum’s official X handle, maintained by the foundation, wrote on the social media platform. Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has also reposted the post.
Earlier this week, a New York jury found Storm guilty on a charge of operating an unlicensed money transmitter, while the jury could not come to a conclusion on money laundering and sanctions related charges.
Storm’s legal team is preparing to appeal the guilty verdict, defense attorney Brian Klein told Business Insider.
In 2023, Storm was charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering and sanctions violations for operating the cryptocurrency mixer.
Prosecutors claim that through Tornado Cash, Storm knowingly facilitated more than $1 billion in money laundering transactions and laundered millions for North Korean hacker group Lazarus. Storm has pleaded not guilty.
Free Pertsev & Storm, a legal aid organization for the Tornado Cash co-founders, said Storm risks up to five years in prison if he does not win the appeal, and potentially decades if the U.S. government retries other charges.
“We will need these funds and more to continue the fight for Roman at the trial court and on appeal,” the organization wrote. “The outcome of these proceedings will set major precedent for developers worldwide.”
Blockchain and crypto advocates have rallied behind Storm, arguing that creating the software for a noncustodial peer-to-peer protocol does not equate to operating a money transmitting business.
“We are disappointed that the jury did not recognize that Storm should not be responsible for the actions of third parties he could not control,” the DeFi Education Fund previously said in a post on X. “We fervently believe software developers deserve the freedom to build decentralized financial tools and infrastructure, including privacy-preserving technology.
© 2025 The Block. All Rights Reserved. This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
Trade Crypto On Coinhub Exchange
Trade Crypto On Coinhub Exchange
Stay ahead of the market by turning news insights into trading opportunities. With Coinhub Exchange, you can seamlessly buy, sell, and manage your digital assets, all in one secure platform. Take advantage of real-time market insights, deep liquidity, and fast execution for your favorite cryptocurrencies. Don’t just read about it — trade crypto now!
Disclaimer
The content of this article shown by Coinhub News, powered by The Block, is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, tax, or investment advice. Coinhub News and its affiliates are not a licensed financial advisor, legal advisor, broker, or tax advisor, and ... should not be considered as professional advice or a recommendation to engage in any specific investment, legal decision, or financial transaction. Cryptocurrency markets are highly speculative and volatile. Readers should perform their own independent research and consult with a qualified professional before making any financial or legal decisions. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the Company of its affiliates. Additionally, the Company does not make any representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, timeliness, reliability, or completeness of any information in this article. By accessing this content, you acknowledge that any reliance on the information contained in this article is solely at your own risk. The Company is not responsible for any financial losses, legal disputes, or other damages that may arise from reliance on this content or from any investment or legal decisions based on the information provided. Investing in cryptocurrencies involves substantial risks, including the risk of losing your entire investment, and you should carefully consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances.
Read more
