Movie2k.to operators face trial for billions in Bitcoin laundering

As reported by CSO Online, a trial has commenced in Leipzig, Germany concerning the illegal streaming service movie2k.to and its operators' alleged accumulation of billions of euros through Bitcoin. The central figure, a 42-year-old man, faces charges including commercial money laundering in 146 counts.

The prosecution alleges that the defendants, along with a previously convicted individual, operated movie2k.to for years, offering hundreds of thousands of pirated films and series. Revenue from advertising contracts was allegedly used to purchase Bitcoin. Although the copyright infringement charges have expired, the trial will focus on money laundering.

A significant aspect of the case involves the court's decision on the ownership of approximately 2.64 billion euros derived from the main defendant's Bitcoin holdings. This sum, obtained from the sale of nearly 50,000 Bitcoins surrendered after the defendant's arrest abroad in 2023, is currently held by the state treasury.

Source: CSO Online