ASV government seizes more than $400 million from Helix Bitcoin mixer operation

OnChainSleuth · 2026-02-14T22:05:32+00:00

The U.S. government confiscated over $400 million dollars in assets related to Helix, a major bitcoin mixer linked to cryptocurrency crimes. This action follows the sentencing of Larion Dean Harmon for money laundering, highlighting increased regulatory focus on digital economy crimes.

OnChainSleuth

2026-02-14 22:05:32

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The U.S. government has carried out one of the most significant confiscation operations in the history of cryptocurrency crime. Assets valued at over $400 million were seized, including Bitcoin, cash, and real estate directly linked to Helix, the notorious dark web Bitcoin mixer. This government action is a logical step following Larry Dean Harmon’s conviction for money laundering and cryptocurrency crimes.

Helix — the Largest Money Laundering Channel on the Dark Web

Helix operated as a professional Bitcoin processing platform from 2014 to 2017, specializing in legitimizing financial resources obtained through illegal activities. The platform processed more than 354,000 Bitcoin, primarily meeting the demand from dark web drug market buyers. Helix featured an advanced financial operation system designed to remove the traceability chain between illicit actors and banks.

Prosecution and Government Enforcement

Larry Dean Harmon, the head of Helix, was convicted of money laundering and sentenced to prison. The court also ordered him to forfeit all personal assets obtained or used in connection with the crime. The post-factum confiscation measures taken by government agencies reflect an increased involvement of the legal system in combating cryptocurrency crimes. Harmon has expressed intentions to focus solely on legitimate business activities upon his release.

Global Trends in Cryptocurrency Regulation

This case symbolizes the U.S. government’s growing focus on addressing crimes in the digital economy. Cryptocurrency mixers and dark web services have become a priority target for regulators. Demonstrating power through the Helix case sends a clear message to the industry: money laundering and cryptocurrency crimes will not go unpunished.

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