Alex Pertsev, a developer for Tornado Cash, is set to be released from prison after nearly nine months behind bars. Detained by Dutch officials in August 2022, Pertsev faced accusations of involvement in money laundering through the Tornado Cash cryptocurrency mixer. Reports indicate that his release will occur on April 26, coinciding with his birthday.
Although he will soon be released, Pertsev is not yet cleared of charges. However, he will be under surveillance while awaiting trial from home, with an ankle monitor tracking his movements during the suspended release period.
A Dutch judge previously denied Pertsev’s request for release under surveillance in November 2022, citing flight risk concerns. The developer’s bail request was also rejected in February 2022.
Tornado Cash’s controversial role in crypto mixing
Tornado Cash, a cryptocurrency mixer used by those seeking anonymity in their transactions, faced scrutiny from multiple authorities due to the influx of illicit funds into the platform.
By mixing different cryptocurrencies, user transactions become untraceable, making mixers a popular tool for illegal actors in the crypto space. Tornado Cash has reportedly facilitated the laundering of several million dollars worth of illicit crypto funds.
In August, the U.S. Treasury Department added numerous addresses from the platform to the OFAC (Office of Foreign Asset Control) sanctions list, leading to Pertsev’s detention in the Netherlands.
The news of Pertsev’s release on surveillance was greeted with jubilation in the crypto space.
