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Roger Ver, known in the cryptocurrency world as “Bitcoin Jesus” and a citizen of St. Kitts and Nevis, has found himself in legal trouble for alleged tax evasion. Spanish authorities recently arrested Ver for charges related to the sale of approximately $240 million worth of bitcoin in 2017.

Ver’s journey into cryptocurrency began early, and he gained prominence as an investor with a strong allegiance to libertarian values. Renouncing his U.S. citizenship in 2014 to become a citizen of St. Kitts, he became a vocal advocate for bitcoin and blockchain technology.

However, according to the Justice Department, Ver faces charges of tax evasion for allegedly concealing the sale of bitcoin owned by his U.S.-based companies, MemoryDealers.com and AgileStar.com. Prosecutors claim that he failed to report and pay taxes amounting to $48 million on these transactions.

The indictment alleges that Ver misled his accountant and provided false information to conceal the true extent of his bitcoin holdings. Despite no longer being a U.S. citizen at the time of the sales, he is accused of evading taxes on distributions received from his companies.

As the case unfolds, it underscores the complexities and legal implications surrounding cryptocurrency transactions and taxation. Ver’s arrest serves as a reminder of the importance of compliance with tax laws, regardless of one’s involvement in emerging technologies.

The investigation into Ver’s alleged tax evasion is being led by the IRS Criminal Investigation’s cybercrimes unit. While an indictment represents allegations, Ver will face trial, with authorities seeking his extradition to the United States to answer the charges against him.