‘Crypto King’ Aiden Pleterski faces fraud, money laundering charges

As a crypto investor with several years of experience in the industry, I’m saddened and concerned by the recent news of Aiden Pleterski and Colin Murphy being charged with fraud and money laundering. This is a stark reminder that not everyone in the crypto space has good intentions, and it’s important for investors to do their due diligence before investing in any project or person.


I’ve uncovered new information where Aiden Pleterski, who has self-proclaimed himself as the “crypto king” and a social media personality, is facing one charge of fraud exceeding CAD 5,000 ($3,666) and money laundering. Following an extensive investigation, Colin Murphy, his associate, is also charged with fraud. The Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) and police have made these announcements.

On May 14th, Pleterski was taken into custody and later the same day, his parents posted a C$100,000 bail bond for his release. In contrast, Colin Murphy was charged with soliciting investments under false pretenses and claiming substantial weekly profits through clever investing. He was granted release on the condition that he would appear in court at a later date.

Individuals found guilty of defrauding over C$5,000 face a maximum penalty of 14 years’ imprisonment. At a press conference on May 16, the Durham Regional Police Service and Ontario Securities Commission chose not to reveal financial specifics regarding their accusations against this individual, invoking a publication ban. However, they hinted that his alleged fraudulent practices may have persisted until February 2024.

'Crypto King' Aiden Pleterski faces fraud, money laundering charges

In July 2022, authorities initiated an investigation into Pleterski and AP Private Equity following a surge of complaints. According to Durham Police Chief Peter Moreira, who spoke with the media on the matter, the probe was launched in response to numerous allegations.

“This investigation was extremely thorough, with more than 40 court orders sought and meticulous analysis of financial documents that took more than 18 months.”

Three months prior, an investor filed a lawsuit against Pleterski and his firm, alleging fraud. By August of the same year, both Pleterski and his company were declared bankrupt. The bankruptcy trustee later uncovered that during this period, Pleterski had amassed C$41.5 million in investments and only put 1.6% of it towards business use. Remarkably, he splurged on luxuries such as a Lamborghini, two McLarens, two BMW automobiles, along with the rental of a mansion and private jets, amounting to C$15.9 million.

'Crypto King' Aiden Pleterski faces fraud, money laundering charges

Despite facing bankruptcy and the trustee’s demands for incarceration, Pleterski persisted in living a lavish lifestyle. He asserted that he had been abducted and brutally treated by an investor and his associates in December 2022, resulting in five arrests of suspects in Toronto in July 2023.

'Crypto King' Aiden Pleterski faces fraud, money laundering charges

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2024-05-17 01:38