The criminal trial of Aiden Pleterski, known as the self-described crypto king, has reached its final stage. Following closing arguments, the jury is set to begin deliberations after receiving final instructions from Justice Shaun Nakatsuru.
Pleterski faces fraud charges related to an alleged digital asset Ponzi scheme. Prosecutors claim he defrauded social media followers of approximately $30 million between 2021 and 2022. The defendant, who chose to represent himself in court, maintains his innocence.
If convicted, Pleterski faces a potential prison sentence of up to 14 years. He was officially charged in 2024 and has been awaiting trial for over two years. The case is part of a broader series of fraud allegations involving high-profile figures in the crypto industry.
In a separate legal matter, five individuals were charged with kidnapping and torturing Pleterski in 2022. Reports indicate some of these suspects were victims of his alleged scheme. One of the defendants, Deren Akyeam-Pong, has already pleaded guilty to nine charges.
