In a surprising turn of events, US President Donald Trump has granted a full and unconditional pardon to Ross Ulbricht, the mastermind behind Silk Road, a notorious dark web marketplace. Ulbricht, who was convicted in 2015 for his involvement in narcotics and money laundering conspiracies, had been serving two life sentences plus 40 years. The Libertarian party and several advocates, including Republican Congressman Thomas Massie, had been urging Trump's intervention, citing the case as an example of government overreach.
Ross Ulbricht operated Silk Road, which at its peak had just under a million registered users. However, investigators struggled to determine the number of active participants. The online platform facilitated the anonymous sale of over $200 million worth of drugs using Bitcoin as the primary currency for transactions. In addition to drugs, Silk Road also offered hacking equipment and stolen passports.
Ulbricht's legal troubles began in 2013 when authorities arrested him and shut down the infamous website. He faced multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit drug trafficking, money laundering, and computer hacking. Despite holding two college degrees, Ulbricht's venture into the dark web led to severe legal consequences.
During his sentencing hearing, District Judge Katherine Forrest remarked that Ulbricht was "no better a person than any other drug dealer." Ulbricht, on his part, expressed that his intention was to empower individuals to make choices in their lives with privacy and anonymity.
"He was given two life sentences, plus 40 years. Ridiculous!" – Donald Trump
President Trump's decision to pardon Ulbricht follows his earlier hints during a May speech at the Libertarian National Convention, where he suggested he might commute Ulbricht's sentence. His actions have resonated with those who campaigned for Ulbricht's release.
"Thank you for keeping your word to me and others who have been advocating for Ross' freedom." – Republican Congressman Thomas Massie
The pardon also drew sharp criticism and comments from Trump regarding those involved in Ulbricht's conviction.
"The scum that worked to convict him were some of the same lunatics who were involved in the modern day weaponization of government against me." – Donald Trump