Bitcoin Seized From Samourai Wallet Has Not Been Sold, White House Says

The White House confirmed on January 16, 2026, that Bitcoin seized from the Samourai Wallet has not yet been sold. The confirmation came as part of a broader response to ongoing investigations into cryptocurrency-related activities. The statement clarified that no decision has been made to liquidate the digital assets.

Federal prosecutors have previously charged the co-founders of Samourai Wallet, including William Hill and Keonne Rodriguez, for their roles in facilitating illicit transactions. As part of their sentencing in late 2025, the pair agreed to forfeit $237.8 million in assets tied to the wallet's operations.

The DOJ's actions against Samourai Wallet have been part of a larger crackdown on unregulated crypto platforms. In a related case, Brian Sewell, founder of the American Bitcoin Academy, was sentenced to three years in prison for a $2.9 million crypto fraud scheme. The DOJ emphasized that such enforcement actions signal continued regulatory vigilance in the crypto space.

Why Did This Happen?

The seizure of Bitcoin from Samourai Wallet stems from a multi-year investigation into the wallet's role in enabling dark web transactions and money laundering. Samourai Wallet was marketed as a tool for privacy but became known for its association with illicit activity. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Utah and the FBI collaborated on the investigation.

The DOJ has maintained a strong stance against cryptocurrency platforms that operate without proper licenses or regulatory oversight. In the case of Samourai Wallet, prosecutors argued that the platform was used to transmit illegal funds for criminal operations such as drug trafficking and fraud.

How Did Markets React?

News of the DOJ's actions against Samourai Wallet and related enforcement efforts has raised investor concerns. The broader crypto market has seen increased volatility as regulatory scrutiny continues. Bitcoin's price dipped slightly in the wake of the sentencing of Sewell and the Samourai founders, reflecting unease among investors about potential legal risks associated with crypto holdings.

Analysts have noted that the DOJ's enforcement strategy appears to focus on high-profile cases to deter unregulated crypto businesses. The message is clear: operating outside of regulatory frameworks can lead to severe legal consequences.

What Are Analysts Watching Next?

Regulators and investors are closely watching whether the White House and the DOJ will expand their enforcement actions to other crypto platforms. The White House's recent clarification on the status of seized Bitcoin suggests that authorities are taking a measured approach to asset management.

Legal experts are also monitoring the implications for future cases involving seized digital assets. The handling of the Samourai Wallet Bitcoin could set a precedent for how the government manages and disposes of cryptocurrency in similar investigations.

Market participants are also watching for further regulatory developments. The Biden administration has signaled that it will continue to prioritize crypto enforcement while also working to develop a coherent regulatory framework for the industry.

The DOJ's actions underscore the increasing importance of compliance in the crypto space. Companies that fail to meet regulatory requirements or engage in fraudulent practices risk facing severe legal and financial consequences.