Roman Sterlingov, the founder of Bitcoin Fog, a crypto mixer, is asking the court for a lighter sentence after being convicted of money laundering and related charges. His lawyers argue that the government’s recommendation of 20 to 30 years in prison is too harsh.
In a filing on August 15 with the United States District Court for the District of Columbia, Sterlingov’s legal team argued that such a long sentence is not fair compared to similar cases.
They also noted that most of the evidence against Sterlingov is circumstantial and does not directly prove he controlled Bitcoin Fog.
Sterlingov was found guilty in March 2024 of charges including money laundering, conspiracy, and running an unlicensed money transmission business.
According to prosecutors, Bitcoin Fog facilitated the laundering of approximately $400 million in Bitcoin linked to illegal activities, such as drug trafficking and identity theft, between 2011 and 2021. However, Sterlingov’s defense maintains that while he had connections to the platform, he was not responsible for its operation.
The defense also pointed out Sterlingov’s background and dedication to his family and community, arguing that these factors support a shorter sentence. They emphasized that key evidence, such as server logs and private keys, was never presented to prove he was in charge of Bitcoin Fog.
The sentencing was originally scheduled for August 21 but has been delayed to address questions about asset forfeiture, including over 1,300 Bitcoin stored in a wallet connected to Bitcoin Fog.