Maximilian de Hoop Cartier Faces Charges for Money Laundering
Authorities in the United States have charged Maximilian de Hoop Cartier, heir to the famous jewelry company Cartier, with alleged money laundering of proceeds from illegal drug trafficking using the stablecoin Tether (USDT). Arrested in Miami, Cartier, a direct descendant of the company’s founder Louis Cartier, is accused of conspiring with a Colombian drug cartel.
Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering Allegations
Cartier, along with five Colombian nationals, attempted to import 100 kilograms of cocaine and launder hundreds of millions of dollars through over-the-counter (OTC) transactions with USDT. So far, the criminals have only managed to launder $14.5 million. Cartier is currently in investigative custody in Miami, while his accomplices have been detained in Colombia.
Charges and Accusations
According to the charges, Cartier used front companies that allegedly engaged in software development and technology. These companies were registered to conduct unlicensed money transfers. Cartier used his companies’ accounts to process transactions and launder money in dollars, pesos, and other currencies.
Maximilian Cartier, who holds Argentine citizenship and has spent most of his life in France, is charged with four counts: money laundering, conspiracy to launder money, transactions involving proceeds of crime, and operating an unlicensed money transmission business. Previously, Cartier owned the company Patagonia, which produced wine, beer, and bottled water.
Focus on Cryptocurrency in Criminal Schemes
These charges emphasize the increasing attention of law enforcement to the use of cryptocurrencies in criminal schemes and the need for strict financial sector controls.
