Recently, White House digital asset advisor Patrick Witt officially announced that the U.S. Department of Justice has confirmed a retention policy for Bitcoin confiscated in the Samourai Wallet case. It is explicitly stated that these digital assets will not be sold, but instead incorporated into the U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve (SBR). This decision directly follows Executive Order 14233 signed by President Trump in 2025, which mandates that all Bitcoin obtained through criminal or civil forfeitures must be allocated to government strategic reserves rather than entering the market.
Clarifying Misleading Reports
Earlier media reports suggested that some of the confiscated Bitcoin may have already been sold, sparking market speculation. However, the latest official statement clarifies that these assets remain in government custody and will not be liquidated. This approach not only reflects the government's recognition of Bitcoin's long-term value but also underscores its cautious stance on financial security and strategic asset management.
Background on the Samourai Case
Samourai Wallet gained attention for offering cryptocurrency mixing services, a feature used to obscure transaction origins. In this case, William Lonergan Hill and Keonne Rodriguez were convicted for their roles as chief technology officer and operator, respectively, receiving prison sentences ranging from four to five years. The case has also prompted regulators to further scrutinize cryptocurrency compliance.
- Confiscated Bitcoin will be retained as part of long-term strategic reserves
- The policy aligns with Executive Order 14233 on digital asset management
- The case highlights compliance risks associated with crypto mixing services