Ross Ulbricht Receives $31.4 Million Bitcoin Donation Post-Prison Release

Generated by AI AgentCoin World
Monday, Jun 2, 2025 3:08 am ET1min read

Ross Ulbricht, the founder of the notorious Silk Road online marketplace, has received a substantial donation of 300 Bitcoin (BTC), valued at approximately $31.4 million, to his crypto wallet. This donation follows Ulbricht's first public appearance since his release from prison, where he delivered a speech at the Bitcoin 2025 conference over the weekend. Ulbricht was released earlier this year following a pardon from the President.

According to blockchain tracking data, most of the donated BTC was transferred to the crypto exchange Kraken within a few hours of receipt. This rapid movement of funds suggests a strategic plan to either liquidate the assets or secure them in a more regulated environment. The donation underscores the continued support and interest in Ulbricht's advocacy for Bitcoin and cryptocurrency, despite his controversial past.

Additionally, it has been revealed that Bitcoin wallets left behind by Ulbricht during his imprisonment still hold tens of millions of dollars worth of BTC. These wallets, which were not seized by the US government, contain approximately 430 BTC, collectively valued at around $47 million. The existence of these untouched wallets raises questions about Ulbricht's access to these funds and the potential implications for his financial future.

However, there is skepticism regarding Ulbricht's ability to access these funds. It is unclear whether he still possesses the private keys to these wallets, which are essential for transferring the assets. The uncertainty surrounding the ownership and control of these wallets adds a layer of complexity to Ulbricht's financial situation and his role in the cryptocurrency community.

The donation and the

revelation
of the untouched wallets highlight the enduring fascination and controversy surrounding Ulbricht and the Silk Road. His release from prison and subsequent public appearances have reignited debates about the ethics and legality of cryptocurrency, as well as the potential for redemption and reinvention within the digital asset space. As Ulbricht continues to engage with the cryptocurrency community, his actions and statements will likely be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike.