The U.S. Department of Justice Expands Crypto Crime Efforts
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is increasing its focus on cryptocurrency-related crimes by merging the National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team (NCET) into the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS). This merger aims to provide more resources and support for investigating and prosecuting crypto crimes. The DOJ believes that the connection between cryptocurrency work and cyber prosecutions will continue to grow in the future.
Key Points:
- The DOJ plans to merge NCET into CCIPS to enhance its capabilities.
- The merger will double the number of criminal division attorneys working on crypto matters.
- The crypto enforcement team was launched in October 2021 to combat money laundering and cybercrime.
- Recent actions include the enforcement action against Bitzlato and the arrest of Avraham Eisenberg.
- Claudia Quiroz will serve as the acting director of NCET, while Eun Young Choi will remain at the DOJ.
Hot Take: The DOJ’s decision to merge the NCET into the CCIPS demonstrates the increasing importance of cryptocurrency-related crimes in the eyes of law enforcement. By dedicating more resources and personnel to this area, the DOJ is signaling its commitment to combatting money laundering and cybercrime in the crypto space.