- Roman Storm’s trial over money laundering and sanctions violation charges has been delayed until April 2025
- Storm, co-founder of Tornado Cash, faces significant charges tied to the platform’s alleged use in laundering over $1 billion
- The court has granted this extension to allow both parties to exchange information about expert witnesses
The trial of Tornado Cash developer Roman Storm has been pushed to April 2025, following a recent decision by a New York federal judge. Initially set for December 2024, the delay grants both the defense and prosecution time to share details about expert witnesses who may testify. Storm, accused of facilitating substantial illicit transactions through the crypto-mixing service, has maintained his innocence since his indictment.
Money Laundering Accusations
Roman Storm, a co-founder of mixing service Tornado Cash, faces a complex legal battle involving charges of conspiracy related to money laundering, operating an unlicensed money transmitting business, and violating international sanctions laws. His arrest and indictment in 2023 were part of broader enforcement actions highlighting concerns over crypto platforms potentially enabling criminal activity.
Prosecutors allege that Tornado Cash was used to launder over $1 billion, including substantial amounts tied to North Korea’s Lazarus Group, a notorious hacking entity.
Storm’s legal team countered an October 14 order when Judge Katherine Failla ordered the parties to swap information about the expert witnesses they might call upon to testify in the upcoming trial. His counsel argued that such a disclosure would show the defense’s hand and “greatly prejudice Mr. Storm.”
Judge Failla agreed to a four-month delay, which will allow the parties time to hash out the disagreement.
Case Goes Beyond Coding Ethics, Says Judge
During preliminary hearings, the judge emphasized that the case goes beyond coding ethics, noting that “the functional capability of code is not speech within the meaning of the First Amendment.” Storm’s defense argued that prosecuting him for writing code would be tantamount to suppressing free speech.
However, the court underscored the U.S. government’s vested interest in curbing money laundering and ensuring financial security, pointing out that these goals do not infringe unduly on freedom of expression.
The upcoming trial will be closely monitored, as its outcomes may shape legal precedents concerning the accountability of developers within decentralized finance platforms. If convicted, Storm could face up to 45 years in prison.
