Ben Armstrong Arrested: The Downfall of BitBoy Crypto
Update (March 26, 6:12 am UTC): The following article has been updated to include additional background information regarding Ben Armstrong’s prior legal issues and arrest history.
In a dramatic turn of events, cryptocurrency influencer Ben Armstrong, popularly known as “BitBoy,” has been arrested in Florida. The arrest comes just days after Armstrong publicly disclosed that a warrant had been issued for his apprehension. This news sent shockwaves through the crypto community, where Armstrong has maintained a significant presence as a self-proclaimed advocate and educator in the world of digital currencies.
On March 25, at 7:18 pm local time, Armstrong was taken into custody by the Volusia County Division of Corrections. According to their official records, he was listed as a fugitive from justice. The circumstances surrounding this arrest seem tied to a recent controversy involving his legal representation—Armstrong publicly stated on March 21 through his social media account on X (formerly Twitter) that he was facing legal troubles related to communications he had made to a Georgia judge while acting as his own attorney.
Armstrong claimed that the emails he sent sparked reactions severe enough for the Cobb County Superior Court Judge Kimberly Childs to delete her social media accounts. While the specifics of these communications have not been fully disclosed, they have drawn attention to Armstrong’s evolving relationship with the legal system, emphasizing a series of ongoing challenges he has faced.
A History of Legal Trouble
This latest incident is not Armstrong’s first brush with the law. In September 2023, he found himself arrested while live-streaming outside the residence of a former business associate. Armstrong alleged that this individual was in possession of his Lamborghini, raising questions about his conduct and decision-making in the heat of the moment.
But Armstrong’s troubles go beyond personal grievances. He was named in a class-action lawsuit in March 2023, where he, along with other influencers, was accused of promoting the exchange Binance and selling unregistered securities. This lawsuit drew considerable media attention as it raised broader questions about accountability in the cryptocurrency space and the responsibilities of influencers in promoting financial products.
In an interesting twist, this lawsuit was settled in August 2024, with Armstrong and co-defendant NBA star Jimmy Butler agreeing to pay a hefty $340,000 without admitting any wrongdoing. These financial settlements, however, do little to erase the scrutiny and questions about the ethical implications of such promotions.
Not Just Legal Issues
Armstrong has also stepped into the boxing ring outside the realm of cryptocurrencies. In early 2024, he participated in a combat sports event hosted by Karate Combat, where he faced off against a pseudonymous memecoin developer known simply as “More Light.” Ultimately, Armstrong emerged victorious after a unanimous decision following three fast-paced rounds. More Light later described Armstrong as a “good guy” following the match, indicating that the competitive nature of the fight did not translate into personal animosity.
However, it isn’t just legal troubles and fights that describe Armstrong’s recent history. The corporate environment around him has also shifted. In August 2023, the parent company of Hit Network, which once controlled the BitBoy Crypto brand, severed ties with Armstrong, citing issues related to alleged substance abuse and unprofessional behavior. Armstrong vehemently denied these claims, asserting that the company’s decision was an attempted coup rather than a justified business move.
The Impact on the Crypto Community
Armstrong’s arrest raises significant questions within the cryptocurrency ecosystem regarding the behaviors and actions of public figures. As someone who has built a substantial following by advocating for crypto investments, Armstrong’s legal troubles cast a shadow over the integrity of cryptocurrency influencers. Followers and casual observers alike may ponder the implications of having such figures represent the rapidly evolving and often volatile world of digital currencies.
With Armstrong in custody and a slew of legal challenges on the horizon, it remains to be seen what the future holds for the BitBoy brand and its founder. As the landscape of cryptocurrency continues to shift unpredictably, so too does the reputational standing of those within it. The ripple effects from this incident could extend far beyond Armstrong, affecting the perception of crypto influencers and their accountability in the market.
