Bryan Micon to Return to Nevada on Bitcoin iPoker Charge

Despite raising only $4,005 for his defense, Bryan Micon will apparently return to Nevada to answer the charge of operating a poker site without a license.

The Las Vegas Review-Journal recently reported that Micon will appear in a Las Vegas court on Thursday after first presenting himself at the Clark County Detention Center to be booked. A warrant issued for his arrest has been recalled, meaning that law enforcement won't apprehend Micon upon touching down on American soil. After booking, Micon will presumably be released without having to post bond.

The allegation stems from acting as the chairman of Seals With Clubs, the Bitcoin poker site that achieved modest success before being forced offline in February. The shutdown was the result of a complaint from a player and a subsequent raid on Micon's Nevada home that saw law enforcement put the poker pro in handcuffs and seize a number of computers and electronic items.

The raid prompted Micon to relocate to Antigua where he launched a new Bitcoin poker site called SwCPoker.eu. The new poker room has struggled to attract player traffic, falling far short of its predecessor thus far.

Soon after leaving Las Vegas and establishing new roots in Antigua, a warrant was issued for Micon's arrest. He indicated a willingness to fight the charge, asking for donations from the public. His goal of $100,000 fell short by almost $96,000 before GoFundMe put an end to his endeavor for reasons unexplained.

The charge is the first of its kind pertaining to a Bitcoin operator, as the cryptocurrency itself remains unregulated. The case may set precedence in online poker, establishing legal requirements regarding virtual currency.

Ten years in the slammer and a fine of $50,000 are the maximum penalties Micon faces, but the reality is that the matter is of much greater significance involving online gaming, licensing and Bitcoin. Even if found guilty, Micon likely won't spend time in jail.