He Was an Online Drug Lord. Now He's a Crypto Entrepreneur

Blake Benthall, previously known for running Silk Road 2.0, an online drug marketplace, has transitioned into the cryptocurrency sector as a start-up founder. After serving his sentence and completing probation, Benthall is now the CEO of Fathom(x), a company focused on tracking digital currency transactions for businesses and government agencies. His past as a criminal enterprise leader provides him with a unique perspective on compliance in the crypto industry, which he believes can help prevent fraud similar to the FTX collapse.

Benthall's journey began in a Christian, home-schooled environment in Houston, where he developed an early interest in technology. He became involved with Silk Road 2.0 after the original Silk Road was shut down, initially as a developer before taking over leadership. The site generated significant revenue, but Benthall's double life led to his eventual arrest by federal authorities.

At a recent cryptocurrency convention, he pitched his new venture to potential investors, highlighting his experience in the illicit drug trade as a cautionary tale for the crypto world. His story reflects the broader evolution of Bitcoin from a tool for illegal activities to a legitimate financial asset. Despite skepticism, Benthall's presence at the convention and a handshake deal for $150,000 indicate a potential path toward redemption and legitimacy in the tech industry.