Charles Esther
Roman Storm’s defense team and U.S. prosecutors have agreed to delay procedural deadlines in his federal case, potentially affecting any retrial on charges of conspiracy to commit money laundering and conspiracy to violate sanctions.
Judge Approves Extended Schedule
On Monday, Judge Katherine Failla of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York approved a schedule proposed by both parties.
The decision will push back the start of any possible retrial beyond the typical 70-day window following the conclusion of the first trial.
Prosecutors Silent on Retrial Plans
Prosecutors have not yet stated whether they intend to retry Storm on the unresolved felony charges.
Judge Failla ruled that excluding time until December 18, 2025, would serve “the ends of justice” by giving the defense adequate time to prepare post-trial motions, outweighing the public’s and defendant’s interest in a speedy retrial.
Partial Guilty Verdict in August
On August 6, a jury convicted Storm of one count of conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money-transmitting business linked to his role in the Tornado Cash platform.
Jurors were unable to reach a verdict on the remaining two charges after extended deliberations.
Sentencing Still Pending
Storm’s sentencing on the single conviction is expected soon, though no date has been set.
Background on the Indictment
Storm was indicted in August 2023 on three felony counts: conspiracy to commit money laundering, conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmitter, and conspiracy to violate U.S. sanctions.
He pleaded not guilty and has remained free on bail since his arraignment.
Legal Trouble for Co-Founders
Storm’s fellow Tornado Cash co-founders face similar legal challenges.
Roman Semenov, indicted alongside Storm in the same court, remains at large.
Alexey Pertsev was convicted of money laundering in the Netherlands in 2024 and sentenced to over five years in prison; he is currently appealing the verdict.
