NCA Officer Who Stole Bitcoin From Crime Network Jailed for Five and a Half Years
2025-07-18 12:11:27
Main Idea
A former UK National Crime Agency officer was sentenced for stealing 50 BTC during an investigation, and the UK has granted new powers to the NCA and police to seize, freeze, and destroy crypto used by criminals.
Key Points
1. Paul Chowles, a former NCA officer, stole 50 BTC (worth $77,000 in 2017, now $5.6 million) during a Silk Road 2.0 investigation.
2. Chowles converted the stolen Bitcoin using Cryptopay and Wirex debit cards, making 279 transactions totaling $144,580 before being caught.
3. The theft was initially attributed to Thomas White, the operator of Silk Road 2.0, but forensic blockchain analysis revealed Chowles' involvement.
4. The UK's NCA and police have been granted new powers to 'seize, freeze, and destroy' crypto assets used in criminal activities.
5. The case highlights the increasing scrutiny and regulatory measures targeting cryptocurrency-related crimes.
Description
Paul Chowles' theft was nearly written off until a search back in 2022 uncovered private keys linking him to the stolen funds.
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