Dark Web Marketplace Founder Receives Full Pardon
Newly-elected US President Donald Trump has granted a full and unconditional pardon to Ross Ulbricht, the founder of the dark web marketplace Silk Road, saving him from serving two life sentences imposed after his 2015 conviction. Trump went on to brand the prosecutors involved in the case as "scum."
Silk Road's Illegal Activities
Silk Road facilitated the illegal sale of drugs, hacking equipment, and stolen passports using Bitcoin as the medium of exchange. The marketplace was shut down in 2013 following Ulbricht's arrest, which led to investigations into narcotics and money laundering activities.
Controversial Conviction and Pardon
Ulbricht was swiftly convicted in New York on charges including drug trafficking, money laundering, and computer hacking. Trump's decision to pardon him, announced on his Truth Social platform, sparked controversy as he criticized the prosecutors involved and expressed his support for Ulbricht.
Online Identity and FBI Seizure
Known online as Dread Pirate Roberts, Ulbricht operated Silk Road from 2011 to 2013, generating substantial revenue. The FBI seized significant digital currency linked to the dark web platform in 2020, further highlighting the impact of Silk Road on the illegal marketplace.
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