Alexander Vinnik Requests Extradition to Russia

Alexander Vinnik, who has been accused of laundering billions, seeks extradition to Russia. Vinnik is a Russian citizen, which is his basis for seeking extradition. He also cites humanitarian reasons.

Vinnik’s story began in 2017 when he was arrested in Greece in July 2017 for allegedly laundering $4 billion in cash since 2011. In addition to money laundering, he has been accused of using laundered cash and conspiracy. After being arrested, he initially requested extradition to Russia and France, but such efforts were unsuccessful.

Even with the extradition request, Vinnik maintains that he is innocent.

He’s stated,

“I do not consider myself guilty . . . The fact that I worked for BTC-e and did my job, and it’s not justifiable to accuse me of it.” He has also hired a lawyer, who claims that Vinnik’s life is “at risk.”

His attorney has also criticized the Greek justice system for keeping Vinnik detained for 18 months pre-trial.

As for Vinnik’s company, $110 million has been levied against it by the U.S. Department of Justice, and an addition $12 million penalties against Vinnik. If Vinnik is convicted in the United States, he could face 55 years in prison.