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 the founder of a start-up called Fathom(x). After serving his sentence and completing probation, Benthall is now promoting software designed to help businesses and government agencies track digital currency transactions for legal compliance. His past as a leader of a multimillion-dollar criminal enterprise adds a unique perspective to his current venture, as he aims to prevent fraud in the crypto space, which has seen its share of scandals like the FTX collapse.

Benthall's journey began in a religious, home-schooled environment in Houston, where he developed an early interest in technology. He became involved with Silk Road 2.0 shortly after the original Silk Road was shut down, initially as a developer before taking full control of the site. Under his leadership, Silk Road 2.0 generated significant revenue, but it also attracted law enforcement attention, leading to his eventual arrest.

At a recent cryptocurrency convention, Benthall pitched his new business to potential investors, highlighting his unique background and the lessons learned from his past. His story reflects the broader evolution of Bitcoin from a tool for illicit activities to a legitimate investment asset, illustrating the complexities of the cryptocurrency landscape. Despite skepticism, Benthall's presence at the convention indicates a significant shift towards legitimacy in his career.