
Craig Wright, the self-proclaimed creator of Bitcoin and accused “Satoshi Nakamoto,” is facing a prison sentence for contempt of court after failing to attend a hearing related to his ongoing legal battle with the Cryptocurrency Open Patent Alliance (COPA). According to reports, Wright, who resides in Asia following his departure from the UK amid an investigation into his tax affairs, informed the court at the last minute that he was unable to attend the hearing due to financial constraints. His claim was met with skepticism by COPA’s barrister, as he reportedly asked for a staggering $305,000 (approximately £240,000) for six months of lost work despite the trial being only two days in length.
Wright’s lack of attendance at the court has led many to speculate that his absence is an attempt to avoid punishment. The Australian businessman and self-proclaimed Bitcoin creator initially failed to appear before the court as ordered, prompting COPA to proceed with their case without him. In a move that has raised eyebrows among legal experts, Wright refused even an offer from COPA to pay for his travel expenses.
The situation is not only embarrassing for Wright but also highlights the extent of his financial troubles. It appears that Wright’s inability to afford a plane ticket to London may be linked to his own financial mismanagement and lack of transparency regarding his alleged Bitcoin fortune.
Wright has been accused of forging documents, committing perjury, and being involved in several other dubious legal practices throughout his controversial career as the face behind the BSV cryptocurrency. His reputation has been tarnished by multiple allegations of fraud and deception.
As a result, this latest development is likely to have significant implications for Wright’s standing within the cryptocurrency community. The news has sent shockwaves through the industry, with many calling for an immediate investigation into his financial dealings.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) will decide next year whether or not to charge Wright with hundreds of forged documents and perjury related to the COPA v Wright case. Meanwhile, Justice Mellor is expected to deliver his verdict and impose a sentence in the coming hours.
In light of this development, it seems unlikely that Wright will be able to return to either the UK or Australia without facing arrest. This latest controversy serves as yet another blow to his already tarnished reputation, and it remains to be seen how the cryptocurrency community will react to these events.
Sources:
1. “Satoshi” Fraudster Faces Prison Sentence in Contempt Case
Source: fullycrypto.com