Samourai Case Bitcoin Forfeiture to Remain in Strategic Reserve, Confirms Top White House Advisor

Bitcoin forfeited in the Samourai Wallet case has not been sold and will remain part of the U.S. government's Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. The Department of Justice confirmed this information, addressing concerns raised by on-chain analysts who observed a movement of $6.3 million in Bitcoin.

Patrick Witt, Executive Director of the White House President's Council of Advisors for Digital Assets, stated that the digital assets will not be liquidated and will remain on the U.S. government balance sheet. This aligns with Executive Order 14233, signed by President Trump in March 2025, which prohibits government agencies from selling seized Bitcoin.

The confirmation came after Bitcoin Magazine reported that the U.S. Marshals Service had moved the seized Bitcoin to a Coinbase Prime address, raising questions about potential violations of the executive order. The DOJ's response clarified the government's adherence to its policy.

Why Did This Happen?

The government's decision to maintain the seized Bitcoin in the Strategic Bitcoin Reserve reflects a broader policy shift. Executive Order 14233 mandates that Bitcoin deposited into the reserve shall not be sold and must be maintained as reserve assets. This aligns with the administration's strategy to build a reserve of 1 million BTC.

The Samourai Wallet case involves developers William Lonergan Hill and Keonne Rodriguez, who were sentenced to prison for operating a crypto mixing service used to launder millions of dollars. The forfeiture of their Bitcoin was a key part of the case, and its retention in the reserve underscores the administration's commitment to the policy framework.