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DOJ Says Samourai Forfeited Bitcoin Was Not Sold, Will Stay in U.S. Strategic Reserve

The confirmation reflects compliance with an executive order that bars liquidating forfeited Bitcoin.

Overview

  • White House advisor Patrick Witt said DOJ confirmed the Samourai-linked assets have not been liquidated and will remain on the government’s balance sheet per EO 14233.
  • Earlier reports pointed to a signed asset liquidation agreement and a November 3, 2025 transfer to a Coinbase Prime address, which raised concerns a sale had occurred.
  • Roughly 57.55 BTC—valued around $6.3–$6.4 million—was forfeited under plea deals with Samourai founders Keonne Rodriguez and William Lonergan Hill, who received five- and four-year prison terms.
  • On-chain data from Arkham and other trackers show no movements consistent with a sale tied to the Samourai forfeiture, supporting the DOJ’s statement.
  • Skepticism persists from family members and some observers, who note DOJ and the U.S. Marshals Service have not released detailed records of custody or handling procedures.