Originally published on: October 05, 2024
Ethereum co-founder, Vitalik Buterin, continues to show his unwavering support for the crypto community by donating 100 Ether, valued at around $240,000, to Tornado Cash developer, Roman Storm’s legal defense fund. This marks the third time that Buterin has contributed to the cause, highlighting the solidarity within the industry.
The Defend Roman Storm crowdsourcing page has received a total of 148 payments for the defense fund, amounting to over 327 ETH, which is approximately $785,000 at the current market rates. Expressing his gratitude, Storm thanked Buterin for his ongoing support, stating, “I can’t describe how much it means to me. Thank you for your long-lasting support.”
On September 26, 2024, United States Judge Katherine Failla’s decision to deny Storm’s motion for dismissal has stirred up the crypto community. Failla emphasized that the charges against Storm are not baseless and that the case will proceed. Despite pleading not guilty, Storm faces a maximum sentence of 45 years if convicted on all three charges, sparking a wave of support from his fellow developers and enthusiasts.
In response to the legal challenges faced by the Tornado Cash team, JusticeDAO was established to raise funds for their defense. The group amassed over 654 ETH, equivalent to over $1.5 million, showcasing the collective effort to support those in need within the industry.
Despite facing sanctions from regulatory bodies, Tornado Cash continues to attract deposits, reaching nearly $1.9 billion in the first half of 2024. This surge in deposits reflects the growing popularity of the platform, despite the legal hurdles it faces.
As the crypto community rallies behind Roman Storm and the Tornado Cash team, the industry remains committed to innovation and resilience in the face of adversity. In a rapidly evolving landscape, unity and solidarity are crucial for overcoming challenges and driving progress.
