- Judge orders Craig Wright to attend UK contempt hearing in person, rejecting his autism and holiday schedule arguments
- COPA challenges Wright’s £900 billion claim and accuses him of “expert shopping” regarding his autism expert
- Wright claims need for ex-secret service bodyguards due to social media threats and surveillance concerns
- Justice Mellor dismisses Wright’s allegations of bias and accepts evidence suggesting remote attendance isn’t justified
- In-person contempt hearing scheduled for December 18 following alleged breach of court injunctions
Judge Orders Craig Wright to Attend UK Contempt Hearing Despite Remote Request
Court Rejects Remote Attendance Arguments
A UK judge has mandated that Craig Wright, the Australian entrepreneur who claims to be Bitcoin creator Satoshi Nakamoto, must appear in person for an upcoming contempt of court hearing, dismissing his requests for remote attendance.
The hearing stems from accusations by the Crypto Open Patent Alliance (COPA) that Wright violated court injunctions by filing a lawsuit against Square Up and BTC Core. COPA’s legal representative Jonathan Hough criticized Wright’s arguments for remote attendance as "not remotely convincing," adding that "wanting to spend Christmas in Indonesia is not a reason that should carry any weight."
Questions Over Expert Testimony
The court proceedings revealed significant scrutiny over Wright’s £900 billion claim and his medical evidence. COPA accused Wright of "expert shopping" regarding his autism expert, Dr. Kiln, noting that the expert had not previously recommended remote testimony during earlier trials.
Wright, participating virtually in today’s session, defended his position by citing social media harassment and security concerns. He stated that he required two "ex-secret service" bodyguards due to fears of being followed, though he indicated he could no longer access such security services after leaving nChain.
Judicial Bias Allegations Dismissed
In a notable development, Wright’s team questioned Justice Mellor’s impartiality, suggesting a connection with patent attorney David Pearce. Mellor firmly rejected these allegations, clarifying that his interactions with Pearce were limited to two official events, stating "I reject in no uncertain terms any allegations of bias."
Final Decision and Next Steps
Justice Mellor ultimately sided with evidence from an alternative medical expert who determined that Wright’s condition did not justify remote attendance. The contempt hearing has been scheduled for December 18, requiring Wright’s physical presence in the UK court.
The case continues to draw attention in the cryptocurrency sector, particularly given Wright’s previous legal battles and his contested claims regarding Bitcoin’s creation. The upcoming hearing will address COPA’s contempt allegations related to Wright’s legal actions against Square Up and BTC Core, despite existing court injunctions.
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