**Crypto Exchange Operator Charged with Money Laundering**

The U.S. Department of Justice has charged Maximiliano Pilipis, operator of AurumXchange, with money laundering. Allegations state that from 2009 to 2013, Pilipis processed over $30 million across 100,000 transactions, some linked to the infamous Silk Road darknet marketplace.

- **Silk Road Connection**: Silk Road, run by Ross Ulbricht (aka Dread Pirate Roberts), was a hub for anonymous drug deals.

- **Unlicensed Operations**: AurumXchange allegedly operated without a license, violating federal registration and reporting requirements.

- **Bitcoin Transactions**: Pilipis is accused of collecting millions in fees, including 10,000 BTC, and laundering proceeds through real estate investments.

- **Legal Consequences**: Facing five counts of money laundering and two counts of tax evasion, Pilipis could get up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

A federal judge will decide his fate, considering sentencing guidelines and other factors.