US President Donald Trump has pardoned Ross Ulbricht, the founder of the online drug market Silk Road, after he spent over 12 years in prison. Arrested at 29 in 2013, Ulbricht was sentenced without parole for his role in the marketplace. Trump had previously indicated his intention to pardon Ulbricht if he were to be reelected, and discussions about clemency were reported in 2020. Supporters, particularly in the cryptocurrency community, have advocated for Ulbricht’s release, pointing to his contributions to Bitcoin's early adoption through Silk Road, which was one of the first platforms to accept Bitcoin for transactions, albeit for illegal goods. Proponents argue he does not deserve life in prison for his involvement in the market that facilitated trade, both legal and illegal. Ulbricht himself has contested claims that he was the sole creator of Silk Road, stating he built on ideas developed by others. His case remains a defining moment within the Bitcoin community and highlights broader discussions about cryptocurrency, freedom, and responsibility.

Source 🔗