The founder of the notorious dark web cryptocurrency mixer 'Bitcoin Fog', Roman Sterlingov, has been sentenced to 12.5 years in prison and faces a forfeiture payment judgment of approximately $395.5 million. This is a significant ruling in the U.S. government's crackdown on cryptocurrency mixers. The U.S. Department of Justice stated that 'Bitcoin Fog' provided a channel for criminals to conceal illegal proceeds over the past decade, involving transactions of over 1.2 million bitcoins.

Although prosecutors sought a sentence of 20 to 30 years, the final ruling was lighter. Sterlingov maintained throughout the process that he was merely a user of the service and not the operator. Commentators believe that this case highlights the U.S. government's crackdown on financial privacy and sends a warning signal to cryptocurrency mixers.

Additionally, other mixer founders are facing similar charges. For example, 'Tornado Cash' co-founder Roman Storm is set to appear in court in 2025 for money laundering and sanctions violations, while individuals associated with 'Samourai Wallet' also face money laundering charges. $BTC