Bitzlato, a popular cryptocurrency exchange, has recently refuted claims made in the media that Anatoly Legkodymov, one of its co-founders, has admitted to engaging in large-scale money laundering.
Rumours started circulating online that Legkodymov, who was arrested by the FBI in mid-January, was in talks with US attorneys to confess to the charges brought against him.
However, Bitzlato has denied the validity of these rumours, stating that negotiations between Legkodymov’s legal team and the US Attorney’s office might be taking place between April and June, but this does not imply an admission of guilt.
The document cited by the media outlets was deemed unreliable by representatives of Bitzlato, who claim that it indicates the US authorities are trying to simplify their work instead of preparing evidence against Legkodymov.
Legkodymov, who is being defended by Venable LLP, has not cooperated with the US Department of Justice and other law enforcement officers, as confirmed by Mark Schamel, a partner at Venable LLP.
The former co-owner of Bitzlato, Anton Shkurenko, has also denied rumours of his arrest in Russia for extradition to France.
He expressed support for Legkodymov, who is seeking guarantors from the US crypto community to secure his release on bail before a court decision is made.