Trump Pardons BitMEX Co-Founders and Nikola Founder Trevor Milton

BitMEX Co-Founders Receive Full Pardons

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has granted full and unconditional pardons to the co-founders of cryptocurrency exchange BitMEX. The individuals pardoned include:

Arthur Hayes
Benjamin Delo
Samuel Reed

Additionally, former BitMEX employee Gregory Dwyer and the entity that owns and operates BitMEX were also pardoned.

Charges and Convictions

In 2022, these individuals pleaded guilty to violating the Bank Secrecy Act by failing to establish anti-money laundering and know-your-customer programs between 2015 and 2020. Prosecutors accused them of willfully disregarding regulations intended to prevent illicit financial transactions.

Trevor Milton Pardoned After Fraud Conviction

Trevor Milton, the founder and former CEO of electric truck manufacturer Nikola, was also pardoned. Milton had been convicted in 2022 of securities and wire fraud for misleading investors about Nikola’s technological capabilities.

Background on Milton’s Case

Milton was sentenced to four years in prison but had remained free on bond pending his appeal. He was accused of making false statements about Nikola’s advancements, including misleading claims about the development of zero-emission trucks.

Political and Industry Reactions

The pardons come as the cryptocurrency industry anticipates a more favorable regulatory environment under Trump. During his campaign, Trump engaged with crypto donors and expressed support for the sector.

In Milton’s case, reports indicate that he and his wife donated over $1.8 million to Trump’s re-election campaign. Trump stated that Milton’s pardon was “heavily recommended” and suggested he had been unfairly targeted due to his political affiliations.

“Trump Pardons BitMEX Co-Founders and Nikola Founder Trevor Milton”