Ethereum Developer Freed After 24-Hour Detention in Turkey Over Privacy Protocol Links

Ethereum core developer Federico Carrone, widely known as “Fede’s Intern” on X, has been released after spending 24 hours in detention in Turkey over alleged ties to an Ethereum privacy protocol. The arrest highlights the growing scrutiny and legal risks facing developers of open-source privacy tools.

Carrone confirmed his release in a post on Monday, saying, “I’m finally out, safe and free. There was a small moment where things looked very bad but thanks to help from many I got released.” 

He said Turkish authorities accused him of “helping others misuse Ethereum” in connection with a privacy protocol, which he believes relates to a January 2022 research paper evaluating user privacy on Ethereum and Tornado Cash.

“We never helped anyone engage in illegal activity; it was purely research on mixers and their properties,” Carrone stressed.

A Growing Pattern of Arrests

Carrone’s detention adds to a troubling trend of developers being targeted for their involvement in privacy protocols. Tornado Cash co-creators Alexey Pertsev and Roman Storm have faced similar legal pressure, with Storm currently awaiting a verdict in a closely watched trial in New York. 

Legal experts say the outcome could set a precedent in the U.S. for criminalizing open-source privacy software, potentially stifling decentralized finance innovation and limiting privacy rights.

Following his release, the Ethereum developer revealed he is now in Europe. He described tense moments during his detention, including being told he would lose access to his phone and be unable to contact anyone. 

Quick intervention from friends across the UAE, UK, US, Europe, Argentina, and even the Catholic Church played a crucial role in securing his freedom. Members of the Solana community also offered assistance by connecting him with helpful contacts.

“I will never forget their help and hope to one day give back to everyone who supported me,” he said.

Ethereum Developer Still Faces Legal Troubles

While Ethereum developer is free, the case remains active. His Turkish attorney is still working on his defense, and Carrone said they are assembling a strong legal team to fully understand and resolve the matter. “If needed, once things are sorted out, I will come back to clear my name and defend ourselves,” he said.

In the wake of his experience, Carrone announced  on Tuesday that he had donated $500,000 worth of Ether to Storm’s legal defense. 

“Roman’s legal defense matters because builders everywhere need to know they can push innovation forward and that the community will stand behind them when they do,” Carrone said.

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