Ethereum News Today: Ethereum Developer Freed After Short Turkish Detention Amid Privacy Protocol Debate

Ethereum core developer Federico Carrone, known in the community as “Fede’s Intern,” was briefly detained in Izmir, Turkey, in July 2025 on allegations of aiding the misuse of privacy protocols. Turkish authorities reportedly cited his 2022 academic research on Ethereum mixers, particularly a project called Tutela, as the basis for the detention. Carrone denied any intent to facilitate illegal activity, emphasizing that the work was non-commercial and conducted for academic purposes [1]. During the detention, he expressed concerns over potential phone confiscation and isolation but was ultimately released after several hours without being charged [2].

Carrone confirmed his release via social media and stated that he was willing to return to Turkey to clear his name. His release came with support from international contacts in the UAE, UK, U.S., Europe, and Argentina, highlighting the role of the global Ethereum community in influencing the outcome [3]. The incident occurred against the backdrop of Ethereum’s price nearing its all-time high. At the time, Ethereum had reclaimed the $4,100 level, driven by rising demand from both retail and institutional investors [1].

Market analysts noted that significant institutional holdings were contributing to the upward trend, with companies like Bitmine and SharpLink collectively holding over 1.8 million ETH, valued at more than $7.5 billion [1]. The cryptocurrency community speculated that Ethereum could soon break its previous price record, citing increased transaction volumes and ongoing institutional accumulation as signs of a broader market trend.

The incident has raised concerns within the blockchain industry about the legal risks associated with privacy-focused development. Carrone’s experience mirrors that of other developers working on privacy tools, such as Roman Storm, co-creator of Tornado Cash, who is currently on trial in the U.S. [4]. The lack of a clear legal framework for evaluating the intent behind such academic and infrastructure-related work has led to calls for more balanced and informed policies that distinguish between academic research and malicious activity.

Carrone has reiterated the importance of community support in protecting innovation within decentralized finance. He pledged to return to Turkey and defend his work, underscoring the broader implications of the case for the development and adoption of decentralized systems [4]. The Ethereum community remains active in advocating for clearer legal standards, especially as the technology continues to mature and gain institutional traction.

Sources:

[1] Cointelegraph. "Ethereum core dev 'safe and free' after being detained in Turkey." https://cointelegraph.com/

[2] Turkish Technology Press. "Blockchain developer known as Fede's Intern confirmed his release from Turkish custody on August 11 after authorities detained him over alleged connections to..." https://www.turkishtechnologypress.com/

[3] Turkish Business Today. "Ethereum developer, Federico Carrone, known pseudonymously as Fede's Intern, has finally left Turkey after being detained for hours." https://www.turkishbusinesstoday.com/

[4] Binance. "Ethereum Developer Released After Detention in Turkey ..." https://www.binance.com/en/square/post/28197705665137