Brothers Move to Bar Google Search Data in $25M Bitcoin Heist Case
Two brothers charged in a 2016 crypto heist have filed a motion to block prosecutors from obtaining their Google search history. The defendants, accused of planning and executing a $25 million Bitcoin heist via ATM codes, argue that search queries are unreliable hearsay and unduly prejudicial. Prosecutors say the data could show intent and planning details, including queries like “how to blow open ATM.” The motion was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. A hearing is scheduled later this year, where the court will decide whether Google must comply with the request. This legal battle highlights privacy concerns around digital evidence in high-profile crypto heist prosecutions.
Neutral
This development centers on legal disputes over digital privacy and evidence, with no direct impact on trading volumes or price action. Historical cases show that courtroom battles over data access rarely shift market sentiment for Bitcoin or other tokens. In both short and long term, traders are unlikely to react significantly, as the ruling affects procedural issues rather than crypto fundamentals.