Former Australian rugby star arrested for alleged cryptocurrency theft

ChainCatcher reported that former Australian Rugby League star Trent Merrin has been arrested for allegedly stealing cryptocurrency worth $91,000 (approximately AUD 140,000). Police have accused him of transferring funds from the victim’s account through deceptive means. This arrest comes as Australian regulators are intensifying enforcement against digital currency crimes.

Merrin has been granted conditional bail and is scheduled to appear at Port Kembla Local Court on December 3. The former forward for the St George Illawarra Dragons, Penrith Panthers, and Leeds Rhinos retired from the Australian Rugby League in 2021 after a 15-year career, during which he represented both New South Wales and the Australian national team. Since retiring, Trent Merrin has been actively involved in business ventures in the cryptocurrency and health and wellness sectors. According to his LinkedIn profile, he describes himself as “an entrepreneur and investor passionate about cryptocurrency, blockchain, and the health and wellness industry.”