Alexey Pertsev's pre-trial detention has been extended, raising concerns for developers of privacy-centric blockchain technologies. Pertsev, who developed the cryptocurrency mixing service Tornado Cash, announced on November 21 that despite efforts to expedite his case, the court prolonged his detention, complicating his appeal preparations. The decision coincides with renewed regulatory scrutiny, particularly following a resurgence in Tornado Cash's usage, which saw a 45% increase in deposits in early 2024 compared to all of 2023. Pertsev faces money laundering charges associated with the mixing protocol, which operates without custodial control over user funds. Initially jailed in August 2022 after Tornado Cash was sanctioned by the U.S., Pertsev was sentenced to over five years in prison for allegedly laundering $1.2 billion. The court rejected his defense that he should not be held accountable for users' actions, stating that the Tornado Cash team could have implemented measures to prevent misuse.

Source 🔗