The second week of Roman Storm’s trial saw Judge Katherine Failla allow testimony from Philip Werlau, an investigator at AnChain.AI, who claims Storm could have modified Tornado Cash to prevent criminal use. The defense’s motion to block this testimony was denied, setting the stage for arguments that Storm had the technical means—via smart contract adjustments—to stop money laundering but chose not to. This development highlights the legal scrutiny facing crypto developers over platform misuse and regulatory compliance.
about Tornado Cash Trial: Judge Allows Key Witness TestimonyKatherine Failla
0 posts last weekUS Moves to Block Crypto Kidnapping Testimony in Tornado Cash Case
US attorneys prosecuting Tornado Cash co-founder Roman Storm have filed a motion to prevent testimony regarding crypto-related kidnappings and torture. The request, led by interim New York Attorney and former SEC Chair Jay Clayton, aims to exclude arguments based on privacy rights and violent incidents linked to cryptocurrency. The defense had hinted at questioning witnesses about cases where individuals were threatened or harmed for their crypto holdings. The judge will now decide whether to allow such testimony as the high-profile case unfolds.
about US Moves to Block Crypto Kidnapping Testimony in Tornado Cash CaseCourt Orders SEC to Explain Crypto Regulation Decisions Amid Coinbase Legal Battle
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has yet to decide on clarifying new crypto rules following Coinbase’s request. A federal appeals court criticized the SEC’s lack of a clear policy, labeling its response to Coinbase as “arbitrary and capricious,” and ordered the agency to provide a more detailed explanation for its inaction. Meanwhile, the SEC’s ongoing legal battles with crypto firms continue to face scrutiny amid shifting political dynamics.
about Court Orders SEC to Explain Crypto Regulation Decisions Amid Coinbase Legal BattleJudge Pauses SEC Lawsuit Against Coinbase Amid Conflicting Crypto Rulings
A federal judge has paused the SEC’s lawsuit against Coinbase, citing conflicting rulings on crypto legality across various courts. Judge Katherine Failla acknowledged the complexity of applying existing securities laws to digital assets, allowing Coinbase to pursue an interlocutory appeal. This decision could significantly impact the SEC’s authority over crypto, as the Second Circuit may provide much-needed legal clarity on the issue.
about Judge Pauses SEC Lawsuit Against Coinbase Amid Conflicting Crypto RulingsCoinbase Wins Interlocutory Appeal in SEC Legal Battle Over Digital Assets
Coinbase has secured a significant legal victory as Judge Katherine Polk Failla granted the company an interlocutory appeal, allowing it to challenge the SEC’s claims at the Second Circuit Court of Appeals. The appeal addresses critical questions regarding the classification of digital asset transactions as “investment contracts” under securities law, particularly the Howey test. This decision, described as a “big legal win” for Coinbase, could greatly influence the case’s outcome.
about Coinbase Wins Interlocutory Appeal in SEC Legal Battle Over Digital Assets