Roger Ver, once known as the “Bitcoin Jesus” for his early and passionate support of cryptocurrency, is now facing serious legal trouble. Charged with crimes that could lead to over 100 years behind bars, Ver is also turning to Washington for help.
A Pricey Push for Political Power
According to recent filings, Ver paid $600,000 to Trump ally Roger Stone to lobby Congress. The goal? To change the law that Ver is now accused of breaking. The New York Times reported that Stone was brought on board in February, showing just how far Ver is willing to go to fight these charges.
Ver denies doing anything wrong. In a video posted in January, he appealed directly to President Trump, explaining that he had trouble managing the U.S. exit tax because of poor liquidity in the Bitcoin market. He claims he simply couldn’t access the funds he needed at the time and did his best to comply with the rules.
The $48 Million Tax Dispute
The U.S. government says Ver dodged at least $48 million in taxes after giving up his American citizenship. The main issue centers on the exit tax, which targets wealthy individuals who renounce their citizenship. Ver insists the situation was complex and blames the lack of Bitcoin liquidity for making it difficult to meet his tax obligations.
The charges against him include mail fraud, tax evasion, and filing false tax returns—serious accusations with major consequences.
Crypto Voices Rally Behind Ver
Even as legal pressure builds, Ver is gaining support from some influential and controversial figures in the crypto world. Ross Ulbricht, the founder of the Silk Road marketplace who is serving a life sentence, has called for Ver’s pardon. He pointed to Ver’s past support and advocacy within the crypto space.
Economist Jeffrey Tucker has also come to Ver’s defense, calling him a hero who’s being punished simply for promoting freedom and financial independence.
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FAQs
Roger Ver paid $600,000 to Roger Stone to lobby Congress to amend the law he is accused of breaking and to influence political support for his legal battle.
Trump’s softer stance on crypto could create a more favorable political environment, but it’s unclear if it will directly impact Ver’s legal outcome.
Ver claims Bitcoin’s market was too illiquid when he renounced his U.S. citizenship, making it difficult to sell enough coins to cover his exit tax obligations.
