ExchangeDEX+

Buy Crypto Markets Spot FuturesGOLD Earn Event Center

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced a move to seize more than $400 million in assets confiscated from Helix, a cryptocurrency mixing service on theThe US Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced a move to seize more than $400 million in assets confiscated from Helix, a cryptocurrency mixing service on the

US Government Seizes $400M in Assets Linked to Helix Crypto Mixer

Author: Tronweekly

Source: Tronweekly

2026/01/31 20:08

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced a move to seize more than $400 million in assets confiscated from Helix, a cryptocurrency mixing service on the darknet.

Helix was one of the top bitcoin mixers on the dark web in the past. It was run by Larry Dean Harmon. Over the period from 2014 to 2017, it processed approximately 354,468 bitcoins (which were worth more than $300 million at the time), mostly for darknet drug marketplaces.

Investigation

The inquiry conducted by the IRS Criminal Investigation Cyber Crimes Unit and the FBI unearthed that Harmon had been the one to disguise the origins of the illicit funds. In 2021, Harmon entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to commit money laundering and was sentenced to 36 months’ imprisonment.

Source: Brookings Institution

Also Read: PEPE Coin Slides Amid Bitcoin Dip and US Government Shutdown Risk

Implications for Crypto Regulation

The Helix case is a good example of the difficulties in regulating privacy-focused crypto tools. A mixer can be enabled for a good outcome, but more often it is a channel for financing crime.

The DOJ lawsuit against Helix demonstrates that the only way to catch the criminals and seize their crypto holdings is for law enforcement authorities to work together internationally and utilise the right blockchain analysis tools.

Source: justice.gov

Overall, the Helix instance can be viewed as a milestone in the ongoing battle against crypto mixers as well as a warning to the whole market that firms should implement stringent anti-money laundering regulations.

Also Read: Tron to Boost Bitcoin Holdings After Binance’s $1B Reserve Shift

Disclaimer: The articles reposted on this site are sourced from public platforms and are provided for informational purposes only. They do not necessarily reflect the views of MEXC. All rights remain with the original authors. If you believe any content infringes on third-party rights, please contact service@support.mexc.com for removal. MEXC makes no guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the content and is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided. The content does not constitute financial, legal, or other professional advice, nor should it be considered a recommendation or endorsement by MEXC.