Coin Center, a leading nonprofit focused on the policy issues facing cryptocurrencies and decentralized technologies, has filed an amicus brief in defense of the Tornado Cash developer, Roman Storm. The brief, submitted in the Southern District of New York, aims to provide clarity on the nature of Tornado Cash and the legal implications surrounding its use.
According to Coin Center, the prosecution's description of Tornado Cash has been vague and prejudicial. In their brief, Coin Center states, "We help the court cut through the vague and prejudicial description of Tornado Cash offered by the prosecution."
They further explain the workings of Tornado Cash, emphasizing that the user interface is merely software running on the user's computer. Coin Center clarifies, "The UI is still just software running on the user’s computer."
Additionally, Coin Center addresses the option for users to utilize a third party, known as a "relayer," to enhance the privacy of their transactions. They highlight that this relayer activity is non-custodial and non-essential to the tool's functionality.
Regarding the indictment against the defendants, Coin Center refutes the characterization of their activities and intentions. They argue against the prosecution's claims and provide a detailed explanation of the Tornado Cash service.
Coin Center also reveals their own use of Tornado Cash for charitable donations and emphasizes the importance of privacy tools in various legitimate scenarios. They mention, "Coin Center has used Tornado Cash to privately accept donations that support our non-profit mission."
Furthermore, Coin Center draws parallels between Tornado Cash and similar tools developed by established financial institutions like JP Morgan Chase, showcasing the widespread use and importance of privacy-enhancing technologies.
In the realm of sanctions law, Coin Center asserts that the government cannot prohibit transactions in information or information materials, highlighting the legal protections afforded to software developers. They argue for the First Amendment rights of the defendants, emphasizing the importance of free speech in software development.
This case, as presented by Coin Center, is poised to be a pivotal moment in digital rights and the freedom to develop and publish software. The nonprofit organization expresses their commitment to supporting the court and safeguarding the American right to freely engage in software development and publication.
