Ontario’s cryptocurrency community was rocked today as news broke of the arrest of Aiden Pleterski, known as the “Crypto King” in the industry.
Pleterski, 32, was taken into custody by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) on charges of fraud, money laundering, and possession of proceeds of crime. The arrest comes after a lengthy investigation into Pleterski’s activities, which allegedly involved defrauding investors of millions of dollars through his cryptocurrency trading business.
According to the OPP, Pleterski’s business, which operated under the name “Crypto Capital,” promised investors high returns on their investments in various cryptocurrencies. However, it is alleged that Pleterski used the funds for personal gain and did not actually invest them as promised.
The investigation into Pleterski’s activities began in 2019 when several investors came forward with complaints about not receiving their promised returns. The OPP’s Anti-Rackets Branch took over the case and worked closely with the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) to gather evidence.
Pleterski was arrested at his home in Toronto and is currently in police custody. The OPP has also seized several assets, including luxury vehicles and properties, believed to be purchased with the proceeds of the alleged fraud.
The arrest of Pleterski has sent shockwaves through the cryptocurrency community in Ontario, with many investors expressing their disappointment and anger at being deceived. The OPP is urging anyone who may have invested with Pleterski or Crypto Capital to come forward and contact them.
This is not the first time that Pleterski has faced legal trouble. In 2017, he was charged with fraud and money laundering in connection with a different cryptocurrency scheme. However, those charges were later dropped due to lack of evidence.
The OPP is reminding the public to be cautious when investing in cryptocurrency and to thoroughly research any company or individual before handing over their money. They also advise individuals to report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
Pleterski is scheduled to appear in court on April 15th to face the charges against him. The OPP’s investigation into his activities is ongoing, and more charges may be laid as the case progresses.
