Bitcoin Donor Supports Julian Assange with 8 BTC Donation
An unidentified Bitcoin donor showed their support for WikiLeaks co-founder Julian Assange by donating more than 8 BTC, equivalent to roughly $500,000, to assist his family in managing outstanding debts. Following a 14-year legal battle, Assange recently regained his freedom after successfully avoiding extradition to the United States. However, he was required to settle $520,000 in expenses from chartered flights to Saipan and Australia, leading his wife, Stella Assange, to launch a crowdfunding campaign.
Significant Crypto Donation
When Stella Assange shared the donation link on June 25, it quickly gained traction, with an anonymous Bitcoin contributor donating over 8 Bitcoin within just 10 hours. This contribution almost met the entire $520,000 target. Additionally, the campaign received more than $380,000 in fiat currency donations, along with the substantial Bitcoin donation.
- The anonymous Bitcoin donation was the largest single contribution, surpassing all other donations combined in various currencies.
- In the past, the crypto community has shown support for Assange through initiatives like the AssangeDAO and collaborations with digital artists.
Assange’s Legal Victory and Release
Assange was released from Belmarsh prison in the UK on June 24, following an agreement with US authorities. He boarded a private flight to Saipan, avoiding US soil, where he pleaded guilty to charges under the Espionage Act. Although he was sentenced to over five years in prison, his time served led to his immediate release, allowing him to return to Australia.
Legal Challenges
Throughout his legal battle, Assange argued that his actions were protected by the First Amendment, despite acknowledging potential legal ramifications. As part of his plea deal, he agreed to destroy all classified data shared with WikiLeaks.
Hot Take: Crypto Community Rallies Behind Assange
The recent support from a Bitcoin donor and previous efforts by the crypto community demonstrate a strong commitment to Julian Assange’s cause. Despite legal challenges and mounting debts, individuals and organizations within the crypto space continue to show solidarity with Assange and his fight for freedom.