Vitalik Buterin Donates 30 ETH to Tornado Cash Legal Fund
A digital wallet linked to Vitalik Buterin, Ethereum’s co-founder, recently transferred 30 Ether, valued at $113,000, to Juicebox, a platform designed for open-source crypto crowdfunding. These funds were specifically allocated for legal support to aid Tornado Cash developers Alexey Pertsev and Roman Storm. At the time this news broke, the fund had garnered approximately 591 Ether (ETH), showing robust support for the legal defense of the Tornado Cash developers as they fight to prove their innocence in court.
This significant contribution underscores the ongoing struggle between privacy advocates within the crypto community and law enforcement. Crypto luminaries like Buterin have consistently championed privacy and the development of tools that allow users to manage their assets discreetly. Buterin has a history of advocating for enhanced privacy measures on the Ethereum network through various published papers and proposals. Hence, his financial backing in this legal battle does not come as a surprise to those familiar with his stances.
Tornado Cash operates as a crypto privacy tool that enables users to send transactions anonymously. While its primary intent is to enhance privacy, it has also been misused by criminals to launder hacked or stolen funds. This dual use has naturally attracted the scrutiny of law enforcement agencies, leading to significant actions against the platform. In August 2022, the United States Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned Tornado Cash.
The founders of Tornado Cash faced severe repercussions, including arrests and charges for violating Anti-Money Laundering regulations. A Dutch court ultimately sentenced Alexey Pertsev to five years in prison on money laundering charges. This legal crackdown reflects a broader trend where law enforcement targets software developers, posing potential long-term consequences for the crypto industry.
The anti-privacy stance of regulatory authorities has also affected privacy-focused cryptocurrencies like Monero, which has faced delisting from major exchanges worldwide. Privacy-enhancing tools have similarly encountered increasing criticism from regulators. Despite differing opinions on privacy, many in the crypto community argue that arresting software developers for creating code, and likening them to terrorists, is an unjustifiable action.
Historically, the crypto community has been a strong advocate for human rights and freedom. This is evident in their proactive call for the release of Ross Ulbricht, the creator of Silk Road, a former online black market platform. Ulbricht is serving two life sentences without parole for non-violent offenses. The collective voice of the crypto community has been instrumental in bringing attention to his plight.
This advocacy has even reached the ears of political figures, with former President Donald Trump publicly promising to pardon Ulbricht if he secured re-election. The stance of the crypto community on such issues illustrates a clear and persistent fight for the safeguarding of rights and freedoms in the digital age.
As the legal battle for Tornado Cash’s developers unfolds, the community remains steadfast in its support. The funds raised through platforms like Juicebox not only provide critical legal support but also symbolize a broader resistance against what many see as overreach by authorities. This ongoing saga highlights the enduring conflict between privacy, innovation, and regulation in the world of cryptocurrency.
Through their actions and support, figures like Buterin and the broader crypto community continue to push for a future where privacy is preserved and developers are free to innovate without fear of legal retribution.
35 thoughts on “Vitalik Buterin Donates 30 ETH to Tornado Cash Legal Fund”
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Supporting Tornado Cash after all the criminal activities it’s enabled is just wrong. There’s no excuse for this.
It’s a shame to see so many resources wasted on this legal battle when there are better causes to support.
Outraged that Buterin is using his influence to back people tied to money laundering allegations. Not okay!
What a remarkable show of support from Buterin and everyone involved! Privacy over everything!
It’s disheartening to see someone as influential as Buterin championing a cause that’s under heavy scrutiny for a reason. 👎🛑
Bravo to Vitalik for his continued support for privacy rights! We need more leaders like him!
Wow! Vitalik continues to be a beacon of support for privacy in the crypto world!
Thanks to Buterin and all contributors, Tornado Cash devs have a fighting chance! 🚀💥
Crypto privacy should not come at the cost of enabling criminals. Bad move by Buterin here.
Such a significant contribution from Buterin! This shows real commitment to the cause.
We should be focusing on constructive innovations, not fighting legal battles for controversial projects. 🤷♂️👎
Buterin supporting this sends a horrible message about the priorities in the crypto community.
It’s about more than moneyit’s about the principle. Well done, Vitalik!
30 ETH for Tornado Cash developers! Buterin truly stands by his principles. 🚀💰
This community support is so heartening. 591 ETH raised already! 👏💟
Buterin once again proves why he’s a true leader. Supporting privacy is the right choice! 🌟🔐
Vitalik stands firm on his beliefs. Thanks for leading by example!
Why are we risking the whole industry’s reputation to support Tornado Cash developers? This is backwards thinking.
Why not put that money into something more ethical and less contentious? This isn’t a good look.
Vitalik’s contribution to the legal fund is a testament to his unwavering support for privacy. Go, Ethereum!
Huge respect for Vitalik’s steadfast support for privacy tools. This is what true leadership looks like.
Such an inspiring move from Vitalik and the Ethereum community. Privacy first! 🛡️🎉
It’s clear that Vitalik walks the talk when it comes to privacy. So commendable!
Admirable move by Vitalik. Privacy must be protected, and he knows it well.
Wait, we’re using vital funds for legal defense of Tornado Cash developers? This is a terrible misallocation!
Vitaliks support for the Tornado Cash devs sends a powerful message. Keep fighting the good fight!
Vitalik’s backing shows the power of community in crypto. Proud to be part of this movement!
This contribution just encourages more shady dealings in the crypto space. Really disappointing.
Amazing effort from the community and Buterin! Privacy and freedom are worth fighting for. 🕊️💪
Vitalik, you’re an inspiration! Thanks for standing up for what’s right! 🌠💖
The crypto community is showing immense solidarity! Way to go, everyone!
Such actions tarnish the reputation of the entire crypto community. We should distance ourselves from these controversies. 🤦♀️🔴
The support for Tornado Cash developers is phenomenal. Way to go, Vitalik and the crypto community!
Love seeing such strong community backing for Tornado Cash devs. The crypto space stands united!
Impressed by Vitalik’s continuous advocacy for privacy. Keep up the great work! 👏👍