The prosecutors from the office of Brooklyn U.S. Attorney Breon Peace argued that Legkodymov deserved at least four years in prison for “creating a clearinghouse for dirty money.” However, the judge took into consideration the harsh conditions of the Metropolitan Detention Center, referencing recent detainee murders, and deemed it “a terrible place,” using this as a reason against more prison time for Legkodymov. The U.S. Department of Justice claimed Bitzlato was a primary provider for dark market purchasers and sellers, as well as a “safe haven for ransomware criminals.” As per the plea agreement, Legkodymov dissolved Bitzlato and released claims of over $23 million in seized assets of the crypto exchange. Zhao was later sentenced to four months in prison after pleading guilty to violating U.S. laws.
Bitzlato Co-founder Avoids Additional Jail Time in $700m Money Laundering Case
