The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has dismantled its dedicated crypto enforcement team, marking a significant shift in federal policy under President Donald Trump. This move follows a broader re-prioritization within the DOJ’s approach to digital assets. 2021 saw the creation of the National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team (NCET), designed to combat cryptocurrency-related crimes including high-profile cases such as the one against Avraham Eisenberg, who was convicted of defrauding Mango Markets for $100 million. Another prominent case involved Tornado Cash, a crypto mixing service sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury. 2023’s changes see Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche ordering NCET’s closure in a four-page memo, asserting that the DOJ should not regulate cryptocurrency markets and instead prioritize protecting everyday users from scams. This is mirrored in the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which has begun to reduce its focus on crypto enforcement as of February 2023. Acting Chair Mark T. Uyeda transferred one of his leading crypto lawyers, Jorge Tenreiro, away from the division in a move that reflects a shift towards investor protection and industry regulation.