Michael Patryn, co-founder of defunct crypto exchange QuadrigaCX, faces scrutiny over unaccounted assets, including 45 gold bars, $180,000 in cash, and a diamond-studded Rolex. Canadian authorities are investigating their origin, potentially linking them to QuadrigaCX's collapse and the loss of millions after CEO Gerald Cotten's mysterious death in 2018.
Ex-QuadrigaCX Founder Faces Scrutiny Over Unaccounted Assets
Michael Patryn, co-founder of the defunct cryptocurrency exchange QuadrigaCX, is under investigation regarding unaccounted assets, including a significant gold stash, substantial cash holdings, and a luxurious diamond-studded Rolex watch. Canadian authorities are demanding an explanation for the origin of these assets, suspecting a potential connection to the exchange's collapse.
Following the mysterious death of QuadrigaCX CEO Gerald Cotten in 2018, the exchange abruptly lost access to millions of dollars worth of cryptocurrency, leaving investors stranded and bewildered. The sudden disappearance of vast sums sparked an extensive investigation.
According to recent reports from Bloomberg, the director of Civil Forfeiture for British Columbia, Canada, has issued an order compelling Patryn to provide a comprehensive justification for the seized assets. The authorities believe these assets may be linked to misappropriated funds from QuadrigaCX.
Chats obtained from communications between Patryn and Cotten have raised further suspicions, suggesting that Patryn may have had prior knowledge of the alleged misdeeds within the exchange. While Patryn has denied any involvement in unlawful activities, he is legally obligated to provide a satisfactory explanation for the origin of the assets before a judge in April. Failure to do so could result in the assets being forfeited to the government.
British Columbia's Solicitor General, Mike Farnworth, issued a stern warning, stating, "If these assets are the proceeds of criminal activity, such as fraud, drug trafficking, or money laundering, we will vigorously pursue their seizure."
Simultaneously, the British Columbia Securities Commission (BCSC) is independently investigating the collapse of QuadrigaCX, focusing on allegations of securities violations and misappropriation of investor funds.
The ongoing investigations surrounding QuadrigaCX and Michael Patryn highlight the potential risks and complexities within the cryptocurrency industry. Regulators worldwide are scrutinizing cryptocurrency exchanges and their operations, aiming to protect investors and prevent future cases of misconduct or fraud.
