Dutch Court Denies Bail for Tornado Cash Developer
A Dutch court has made the decision to deny bail for Alexey Pertsev, the developer of Tornado Cash, who was convicted of money laundering back in May. This ruling poses a significant setback for Pertsev, who has been in custody for the past two months without access to a computer or the internet, crucial for preparing his defense.
Pertsev to Remain in Custody
Despite arguments from his defense lawyers, Keith Cheng and Judith de Boer, Pertsev will remain in custody as he prepares for his appeal. The Court of Appeal of ‘s-Hertogenbosch determined that his detention would not impede his ability to prepare his defense, despite the request for internet access to aid in his case.
- The court maintains that Pertsev is not a flight risk and does not require internet access.
- Cheng outlined 18 points for Pertsev’s appeal that necessitated computer access, but the request was denied.
- The prison, where Pertsev is held, also refused the request for computer access.
- The defense lawyer explained that providing a computer would violate the prison’s safety policy.
- Pertsev was arrested in August 2022 for suspected involvement in hiding criminal funds and aiding money laundering.
Court Rejects Computer Access
At a recent hearing, Cheng disclosed the need for computer access to process important points for Pertsev’s appeal. However, both the court and the prison denied the request for computer access, citing safety policies as the reason. Despite efforts to secure computer access, including an appeal to the court, Pertsev was not granted access.
De Boer expressed her concerns about the implications of Pertsev’s pre-trial detention regarding fundamental legal questions and criminal liability for third-party misuse. She emphasized the importance of addressing these issues for the benefit of the legal system as a whole.
Pertsev’s Legal Battle
Pertsev, a 31-year-old Russian developer, was found guilty for his involvement in the development of Tornado Cash and sentenced to 64 months in prison. The case raises broader questions about the accountability of software developers for third-party misuse and the implications for the legal system.
Hot Take: Standoff in Pertsev’s Legal Battle
As Alexey Pertsev continues to face legal challenges in the aftermath of his conviction for money laundering, the denial of bail and computer access further complicates his situation. The refusal to grant essential resources for his defense highlights the ongoing struggle in his legal battle, raising concerns about the fairness and transparency of the judicial process.
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