Former NRL star Trent Merrin arrested over alleged $140K crypto theft in Australia
Former Australian Rugby Star Trent Merrin has been arrested and charged with stealing AUD $140,000 worth of cryptocurrency using deceptive means. Police allege that Merrin accessed and transferred funds from a victim’s crypto wallet without authorization, and electronic devices were seized during a raid on his residence. Merrin, a former professional rugby league player, retired in 2021 and is involved in crypto investments. The arrest highlights Australia’s intensified crackdown on crypto-related crimes, including stricter regulations and enforcement actions against digital asset service providers and cryptocurrency ATMs. Merrin has been released on conditional bail and will appear in court on December 3.
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Former NRL Star Arrested for Cryptocurrency Theft
Former Australian Rugby Star Trent Merrin has been arrested and charged for allegedly stealing AUD $140,000 worth of cryptocurrency using deceptive means. According to a local media report published on Nov. 4, Merrin was accused of dishonestly obtaining financial advantage by deception. Australian police conducted a raid on his residence, seizing multiple electronic devices as part of the investigation.
Details of the Allegations and Investigation
After a year-long investigation, authorities found that Merrin allegedly accessed and transferred funds from a 29-year-old man’s crypto wallet without authorization. Deceptive tactics were reportedly used to carry out the theft. However, the police have not disclosed the exact details of how the theft was executed or the nature of the relationship between Merrin and the victim.
Seizure of Evidence
During the raid on Trent Merrin’s Barrack Point residence, several electronic devices were confiscated. These devices are now undergoing forensic examination to support the ongoing inquiry into the alleged fraud.
Merrin's Background and Bail Conditions
Merrin, who retired from professional rugby in 2021 after a 15-year career, is known for representing the Kangaroos, New South Wales Blues, and NRL clubs like the Dragons and Panthers. On his LinkedIn, he describes himself as a “dedicated entrepreneur and investor with a passion for crypto, blockchain, and the health and wellness industry.” Merrin has been released on conditional bail and is scheduled to appear before the Port Kembla Local Court on Dec. 3.
Australia's Intensified Crackdown on Crypto Crime
Merrin’s arrest aligns with Australia’s ongoing crackdown on cryptocurrency-linked crimes. The Australian government has flagged the crypto sector as a major threat to its financial system. Over the past year, the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) classified cryptocurrency as a “high” risk factor in its national money laundering risk assessment.
Government Reforms and Regulatory Measures
In February, AUSTRAC launched a compliance sweep, targeting over 50 cryptocurrency service providers, leading to 13 registrations being revoked or suspended. Recently, the government granted AUSTRAC new powers to regulate crypto ATMs, which have grown prevalent in scams and illicit transfers. Additionally, draft legislation has been introduced to tighten crypto licensing, mandating platforms to obtain an Australian Financial Services Licence and imposing penalties of up to 10% of annual turnover for breaches.