Ross Ulbricht, the creator of the unlawful drug market Silk Highway, expressed gratitude on Thursday after being pardoned by President Donald Trump.
What occurred: In his first public assertion after being granted a full and unconditional pardon, Ulbricht referred to as Trump “a person of his phrase.”
“Thanks a lot, President Trump, for giving me this wonderful blessing,” Ulbricht stated in a video posted by way of his X account. “I’m so, so grateful to have my life again, to have my future again, to have this second probability.”
See Additionally: Cathie Wooden Was Requested If She Would Purchase TRUMP Coin, Right here’s What She Mentioned
Ulbricht, who was serving a double life sentence since 2013 for creating the darknet web site, stated this is a vital second for individuals who worth freedom and consider in second possibilities.
On a curious be aware, Ulbricht said that “there’s quite a bit to speak about” and that he would begin partaking with the free world quickly.
Apparently, wallets tied to Ulbricht nonetheless include 430 BTC, value greater than $45 million, fueling hypothesis about their on-chain strikes now that he’s free.
Why It Issues: Earlier this week, Trump fulfilled his marketing campaign promise by signing an government order to liberate Ulbricht in honor of the Libertarian Motion.
The Silk Highway web site was a hub of the unlawful trafficking of heroin, cocaine, LSD, and different substances, all paid for in Bitcoin BTC/USD. It’s estimated that the platform facilitated $1 billion value of illicit transactions within the apex cryptocurrency.
Regardless of the character of the crimes, Ulbricht was considered as a champion of libertarian values, together with his supporters criticizing the federal government for regulating the web and tightening civil freedoms.
Value Motion: On the time of writing, Bitcoin was exchanging fingers at $104,930 up 2.78% within the final 24 hours, in keeping with information from Benzinga Professional.
Picture by way of Shutterstock
Learn Subsequent:
Market Information and Information delivered to you by Benzinga APIs
© 2025 Benzinga.com. Benzinga doesn’t present funding recommendation. All rights reserved.