Judge Declines DOJ Records Review in Roman Storm Case
- Judge denies record review request in Storm’s case.
- Ruling has potential ramifications for crypto mixers.
- Prosecutors continue with pending charges.
The decision highlights the legal challenges surrounding cryptocurrency mixers and their classification under U.S. financial regulations. With the trial approaching, the outcome may influence how regulators treat similar technologies.
Roman Storm, co-developer of Tornado Cash, was indicted with Roman Semenov in 2023 for operating an unlicensed money transmitting business. Judge Failla rejected the records review, citing lack of exculpatory material.
“I’m not going to require a further review based on the representations made that there’s no additional material of this type, and based on my views that I don’t believe the material was exculpatory.” — Judge Katherine Polk Failla, Federal Judge, Southern District of New York
Roman Semenov and Alexey Pertsev, also involved with Tornado Cash, have faced legal scrutiny. Pertsev was released in 2025 after arrest in 2022. The DOJ has shifted focus to targeting bad actors rather than mixing services overall.
The ruling highlights ongoing tensions between developers and regulators over financial technology and cryptocurrency accountability. Storm’s trial could set precedents for future legal actions against tech developers.
Prosecutors plan to drop some charges related to transmitting business operations but proceed with money laundering and conspiracy allegations. The case underscores debates about the legal status of cryptocurrency mixers in the U.S.
Historically, cases like Samourai Wallet have faced DOJ scrutiny, revealing broader regulatory implications. Storm’s trial could impact how mixers operate under U.S. laws, potentially influencing regulatory approaches.
Further insights suggest regulatory adjustments could arise from trial outcomes, potentially affecting crypto regulations. Observers anticipate shifts in how technological innovations are monitored by authorities.
