October 14th 2026, 7:38 PM
Richard Heart Detained in Istanbul Amid Tax Fraud and Assault Allegations
Key Summary
Richard Heart, founder of HEX and PulseChain, has been reportedly detained in Istanbul on suspicion of tax fraud and assault, following a Finnish Red Notice. Authorities have not confirmed his current status, and his legal team remains silent. The case is separate from the US Securities and Exchange Commission's case connected to HEX, which was dismissed in 2005. Turkish media outlets have varying reports on the items seized during the raid, including claims of $600,000 to $4 million in cash and watches.
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Background
Richard Heart, the founder of HEX and PulseChain, has reportedly been detained in Istanbul following an operation involving Turkish police and the country’s intelligence agency.The Investigation
The operation is tied to a Finnish Red Notice concerning suspected tax fraud and assault.Allegations
Heart was arrested in Istanbul’s Beşiktaş district on October 14, Ihlas News Agency reported, cited by Turkish Daily Sabah.Investigation Timeline
A Finnish court remanded Heart in custody in his absence in September 2024.Alleged Crimes
Police suspected that Heart committed tax fraud from June 2020 to April 2024.Related Cases
This case is separate from the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s case connected to HEX, PulseChain, and PulseX.Dismissed Lawsuit
A US judge dismissed the SEC lawsuit in February 2005, citing jurisdiction issues.Current Status
Authorities have not confirmed whether Heart is still in custody or being extradited.Reports of Seized Items
Turkish prosecutors, Finland’s police, and Interpol have no statements verifying these claims.Variation in Reports
Reports of the items seized during the raid vary wildly, including claims of $600,000 to $4 million in cash and watches.Conclusion
The exact details of the case remain unclear, and more information is needed to confirm the accuracy of these reports.#Crypto#Istanbul#Turkey#SEC