Craig Wright Faces New Legal Challenges as He Seeks to Attend a Contempt Hearing Remotely, Citing Autism as a Reason for Avoiding In-Person Court

Craig Wright, best known for his controversial claim to be Bitcoin's creator, appeared in court today regarding a contempt charge filed by the Cryptocurrency Open Patent Alliance (COPA).

Craig Wright, who has been notably absent from court proceedings due to his autism spectrum disorder, appeared in court today via video link to address a contempt charge filed by the Cryptocurrency Open Patent Alliance (COPA).

During the hearing, Wright expressed his preference for attending court remotely, citing his autism as a reason for wanting to avoid in-person appearances. However, the judge highlighted the seriousness of the contempt proceedings and suggested that Wright may not fully grasp the weight of the case.

“I am very high on the autism scale. I do not work well with people… In my own environment, I am much better,” Wright stated in court.

Judge questions Wright’s ‘closet in Thailand’ excuse

In response to Wright's request to attend court remotely, the judge acknowledged his condition but questioned the feasibility of his proposal. Highlighting the serious nature of the contempt proceedings, the judge suggested that Wright may not fully grasp the weight of the case and encouraged him to submit further evidence detailing his medical needs.

Hough KC: This is an extremely serious judicial proceding, therefore we think it should take place in person. CSW has brought a very large claim, if there is any merit in COPA's application, its wrong in principal to hide behind a keyboard from a closet in Thailand. CSW says he…

— BitMEX Research (@BitMEXResearch) November 1, 2024

COPA’s legal representative, Hough KC, pressed for Wright’s in-person attendance, arguing that his U.K. residency obligates him to appear in court, as is standard practice for a U.K. resident facing contempt allegations.

“If there is any merit in COPA’s application, it’s wrong in principle to hide behind a keyboard from a closet in Thailand,” Hough stated.

Hearing set for December amid continued legal battles

The December 18 contempt hearing adds to Wright’s ongoing legal troubles. COPA initially filed the contempt application in response to what it sees as disruptive behavior by Wright, with this particular case set against the backdrop of Wright’s high-profile lawsuit against Bitcoin Core developers. In this suit, he alleges that protocol updates to Bitcoin have financially harmed him by deviating from the original design.

Wright’s current legal strategy reflects his history of litigation centered around Bitcoin, a saga that has repeatedly cast doubt on his claims to be Satoshi Nakamoto. In recent years, his attempts to prove himself as Bitcoin’s creator have been met with consistent skepticism, with numerous courts ruling against him.

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