U.S. Trial Underway for Accused Cryptocurrency Thief Who Bought Rare Collectibles

A U.S. trial has begun for Jonathan Spalletta, accused of exploiting smart contracts on a decentralized exchange (DEX) to steal approximately $54.7 million worth of cryptocurrency in April 2021.

The defendant allegedly used the stolen funds to purchase rare collectibles, including Pokémon cards, Magic: The Gathering cards, and an ancient Roman coin commemorating the assassination of Julius Caesar.

Prosecutors claim Spalletta laundered the funds through mixing services like Tornado Cash before moving them into physical assets. Authorities seized approximately $31 million worth of cryptocurrency from the defendant's home in February 2025.