Ilya Lichtenstein Released Early Under First Step Act After Bitfinex Hack Conviction

News Flash 2026-01-04 11:30

Ilya Lichtenstein, convicted for his role in the 2016 Bitfinex hack, has been granted early release from federal custody under the First Step Act. Lichtenstein, who admitted to the theft and laundering of nearly 120,000 bitcoin, served just over one year of his five-year sentence. His release to home confinement was facilitated by earned credits for good conduct and program participation. The First Step Act, a federal prison reform law, allows eligible inmates to reduce sentences through earned credits. Lichtenstein's early release underscores the impact of this legislation on major cryptocurrency crime cases. Despite his release, authorities continue efforts to recover the remaining stolen assets, having already retrieved approximately 94,000 bitcoin. Lichtenstein's cooperation with investigators, particularly in cases involving crypto mixers, contributed to his sentence reduction.

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