Originally published on: December 11, 2024
Roger Ver, also known as “Bitcoin Jesus” for his early advocacy of cryptocurrencies, is challenging allegations brought against him by the United States Department of Justice (DOJ).
Ver, who gave up his US citizenship in 2014, was apprehended in Spain in April. The US government is seeking his extradition on charges related to tax evasion, mail fraud, and false tax filings.
Prosecutors allege that Ver misrepresented his assets and failed to disclose ownership of approximately 131,000 Bitcoin (BTC). However, Ver refuted these claims during an interview with Tucker Carlson on Dec. 10.
In his defense, Ver stated, “I was neither an American citizen nor residing in the US at the time these accusations were made.” He believes that the US government is more concerned about his outspoken support for cryptocurrencies than about tax compliance.
According to the DOJ, Ver omitted reporting substantial capital gains from Bitcoin transactions and undervalued the worth of two companies when he renounced his US citizenship. It’s alleged that he concealed 131,000 BTC, valued at nearly $240 million during the 2017 sale, resulting in a $48 million tax deficit.
Ver’s legal team argues that the charges are outdated and influenced by unclear cryptocurrency tax regulations. They also claim that US prosecutors violated confidentiality agreements and legal safeguards.
During his interview with Carlson, Ver suggested that the charges stem not from tax issues but from his vocal promotion of cryptocurrencies, which he believes challenges governmental control over monetary systems. He also insinuated that US intelligence agencies worked to undermine the original purpose of Bitcoin’s decentralization.
Ver implicated his recent book release as a reason for his indictment, claiming that it exposes government interference in the cryptocurrency sector.
On Dec. 3, Ver sought to dismiss the US tax evasion charges, labeling the case “unconstitutional” and criticizing the Internal Revenue Service’s (IRS) exit tax as “incomprehensibly vague.” The exit tax mandates that individuals pay all outstanding taxes before renouncing US citizenship and exiting the country’s tax regime.
Through his legal battles, Ver remains resolute in his belief that the charges brought against him are more about his outspoken support for cryptocurrencies than about tax irregularities.