Crypto Crossroads: The Legal Shakeup Hits Washington

This week, U.S. crypto policy took a dramatic and unexpected turn. The Department of Justice quietly dismantled its crypto crime division, pulling back federal enforcement efforts even as digital currency fraud remains a major concern. Meanwhile, the U.S. quietly passed its first comprehensive crypto law, signaling a shift from aggressive prosecution to structured regulation. Together, these developments mark a turning point—reshaping the rules of the digital economy and opening a new chapter in the battle between innovation and oversight. As enforcement retreats and legislation steps forward, the legal spotlight on crypto just got a whole lot brighter.

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ChaseLawyers Newsletter
April 15, 2025

Hi there,

In this edition, we're spotlighting two major moves in Washington that could reshape the legal future of cryptocurrency in the U.S.—one quiet, one groundbreaking, both with big implications for businesses and regulators.

The Department of Justice quietly shut down its crypto crimes division, scaling back enforcement efforts at a time when digital asset fraud remains a growing concern. The closure sends a clear signal: federal priorities are shifting, and the aggressive crackdown phase may be ending. But just as one door closes, another opens—this time in Congress.

Without much fanfare, lawmakers passed the first comprehensive U.S. crypto law, setting a legal foundation for how digital assets will be treated moving forward. The legislation offers long-awaited clarity on regulation and compliance, while also revealing a change in tone: from suspicion to structure. For crypto entrepreneurs, exchanges, and investors, it’s a new era—less courtroom, more rulebook.

DOJ Shuts Down Crypto Crimes Unit

In a quiet but significant move, the Department of Justice has disbanded its crypto crimes team, marking a sharp pivot in how the federal government handles digital asset enforcement. The decision comes amid ongoing concerns about fraud and misuse in the crypto space. Legal analysts suggest this signals a shift away from aggressive prosecution—and toward a more regulated framework. For crypto companies, it may reduce short-term legal pressure but heighten the need for long-term compliance.

Congress Passes First U.S. Crypto Law

While headlines focused on trade tensions, Congress quietly passed the country’s first-ever crypto law—laying the groundwork for how digital assets will be governed in the U.S. The law brings long-awaited clarity around definitions, regulatory oversight, and compliance standards. Legal experts say this could be the start of a broader push to legitimize and stabilize the crypto industry—but note that enforcement details and agency coordination are still evolving.

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