Roger Ver Discusses Arrest and Bitcoin's Evolution

Roger Ver's Arrest and Allegations

Roger Ver, famously known as "Bitcoin Jesus," recently discussed his arrest and the evolution of Bitcoin in an interview. Ver was detained in Spain following a request by the U.S. Department of Justice, accused of tax evasion and allegedly causing a $48 million loss to the IRS. However, Ver refutes these allegations, suggesting that his arrest is linked to his early advocacy for Bitcoin and his criticisms of its current state.

Motivations Behind Ver's Arrest

Ver argues that the charges against him are not about tax evasion. He believes the arrest is due to his outspoken support of Bitcoin and his controversial views on its lack of privacy in financial transactions today. In 2014, he renounced his U.S. citizenship and became a citizen of Saint Kitts and Nevis, a move he claims was in anticipation of potential legal troubles due to his Bitcoin advocacy.

Bitcoin's Current State and Ver's Critique

In the interview, Ver expressed his belief that Bitcoin has deviated from its original purpose as envisioned by its mysterious creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. He recently published a book entitled "Hijacking Bitcoin," where he elaborates on his views, arguing that Bitcoin no longer serves as a tool for financial privacy and freedom.

The Mystery of Satoshi Nakamoto

When questioned about the identity of Bitcoin's creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, Ver admitted that he does not know who they are, and doubts anyone else does. He emphasized the monumental impact of Bitcoin, equating its significance to that of electricity, the transistor, and the internet in shaping human history.