Crown Alleges Man Used $5.7M Dark Web Bitcoin to Buy Home

A man from the far south coast of New South Wales has been granted conditional bail after facing serious charges related to alleged dark web activities and cryptocurrency dealings. Jamie Lawrence Powrie, 39, was arrested on May 27, 2025, and subsequently charged with dealing with property suspected of being the proceeds of crime exceeding $5 million, failing to comply with a digital evidence access order, and supplying prohibited drugs.

“

The crown will be alleging the cryptocurrency was used to buy the house Mr Powrie was in at the time of his arrest.

During a bail hearing at Batemans Bay Local Court, the Crown prosecutor argued against bail, citing the severity of the charges. The prosecution alleges that the $5.7 million worth of bitcoin was used to purchase the house where Mr. Powrie was apprehended. The court also heard that Mr. Powrie's name was found on seized laptops, and he was known to a co-accused.

Mr. Powrie's lawyer contended that his client had already spent considerable time in custody since May 2025 and that significant delays had occurred in the court process. The defense also highlighted the technical nature of some case elements, suggesting difficulties for the accused in preparing his defense while incarcerated. Judge Doug Dick ultimately granted bail, citing the length of time already served and imposing strict conditions, including house arrest. Mr. Powrie is scheduled to appear in court again for a case conference on July 27.

“

significant delays before the court

The arrest was a result of "Strike Force Andalusia," a 15-month investigation initiated by NSW Police in September 2024. The task force focused on a substantial amount of bitcoin held in a cryptocurrency wallet, believed to be the proceeds of illegal activities on the dark net. Police searches in Surfside and Ingleburn uncovered electronic devices and cryptocurrency, including 52.3 bitcoin valued at approximately $5.7 million.

“

technical