- UK NCA officer Paul Chowles is charged with stealing 50 BTC in 2017.
- Chowles will appear at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court on April 25, 2025.
A UK National Crime Agency (NCA) officer has been charged over the alleged theft of 50 Bitcoin (BTC) in 2017. The stolen BTC was worth around £60,000 ($77,400) at the time. Today, it is valued at approximately £3.2 million ($4.2 million).
Paul Chowles, 42, from Bristol, faces 15 criminal charges. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) authorized Merseyside Police to charge him. The charges include 11 counts of concealing, disguising, or converting criminal property. He also faces three counts of acquiring, using, or possessing criminal property and a single count of theft.
The alleged theft happened during an NCA investigation into online organized crime. Chowles was working as an operational officer at the time.
Court Appearance Set for April
Chowles is due to appear at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court on April 25, 2025. Malcolm McHaffie, head of the CPS Special Crime Division, confirmed the charges. He emphasized that the defendant has the right to a fair trial. He also urged the public not to share information that could affect legal proceedings.
The 50 BTC was worth £60,000 in 2017. Over the years, Bitcoin’s price has surged, making the stolen amount significantly more valuable. It now stands at around £3.2 million.
Authorities have not confirmed whether the stolen Bitcoin has been recovered. It is unclear if Chowles still has access to the funds.
NCA’s Role in Fighting Crime
The NCA is responsible for tackling serious and organized crime in the UK. It focuses on areas like cybercrime, money laundering, drug trafficking, and fraud.
In 2024, the UK government granted the NCA more power over crypto-related crimes. The agency can now seize, freeze, and destroy cryptocurrency linked to criminal activities. It no longer needs an arrest to take such actions.
The CPS prosecutes serious and complex cases in England and Wales. Its Special Crime Division handles high-profile investigations. The case against Chowles is ongoing, with more details expected in the coming months. For now, the legal process will continue in court. Authorities remain tight-lipped about further developments.
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