Virginia Man Convicted of Funding ISIS Using Cryptocurrency
A Federal Jury Convicts a 35-Year-Old Man from Virginia for Funding the Islamic State
Mohammed Azharuddin Chhipa, a 35-year-old man from Springfield, Virginia, has been convicted by a federal jury of making cryptocurrency donations to a terrorist organization, the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS). According to the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), Chhipa sent $185,000 worth of cryptocurrencies to ISIS members in Syria between October 2019 and October 2022.
The Extent of Chhipa’s Involvement
Court records and evidence confirmed that Chhipa sent crypto ‘to benefit ISIS in various ways, including by financing the escape of female ISIS members from prison camps and supporting ISIS fighters.’ This conviction is a significant blow to those who use cryptocurrency for nefarious purposes.
How Chhipa Raising Funds
Chhipa raised funds through social media accounts, electronic bank transfers, and in-person cash collections. The money would then be converted into crypto and sent to Turkey, where it could be smuggled to ISIS members in Syria, according to the DOJ report.
A British-Born ISIS Member as Chhipa’s Co-Conspirator
The investigation revealed that a British-born ISIS member residing in Syria was identified as Chhipa’s primary co-conspirator. This individual also raised funds for prison escapes and terrorist attacks.
Chhipa’s Conviction on Multiple Counts
Chhipa was convicted on five counts: one count of conspiracy to provide material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization and four counts of providing and attempting to provide material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization. If consecutively sentenced to the maximum on all counts, Chhipa could face up to 100 years in prison.
Sentencing Hearing Scheduled for May 2025
He will be sentenced at a hearing on May 5, 2025. A judge will determine the length of his prison term, considering US sentencing guidelines and statutory factors.
Related Cases: The DOJ’s Efforts to Combat Cryptocurrency-Related Crimes
The Department of Justice has been actively working to combat cryptocurrency-related crimes. Recently, they charged Maximiliano Pilipis, operator of crypto exchange AurumXchange, with money laundering of funds linked to the darknet marketplace, Silk Road.
Key Points from the DOJ’s Statement
- The exchange allegedly processed numerous transactions from accounts held on the Silk Road.
- AurumXchange operated without a license from 2009 until 2013 and violated Know Your Customer, Anti-Money Laundering, and Counter-Terrorist Financing regulations.
The Importance of Combating Cryptocurrency-Related Crimes
Cryptocurrencies have become an attractive medium for those seeking to support terrorist organizations. The DOJ’s efforts aim to disrupt these activities and bring perpetrators to justice.
Additional Articles on Related Topics
- "13 Christmas Gifts that Bitcoin and Crypto Degens Will Love": Explore more articles like this to stay informed about the world of cryptocurrency.
- Subscribe to the Markets Outlook Newsletter: Get critical insights to spot investment opportunities, mitigate risks, and refine your trading strategies.
By subscribing, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
