Former Australian Rugby Player Arrested in Alleged Cryptocurrency Theft
Sydney, Australia – Former Australian rugby player and entrepreneur, Sam Merrin, was arrested this week in connection with alleged cryptocurrency theft, Australian authorities confirmed. The arrest underscores a growing crackdown on cryptocurrency-related crime within the country.
Merrin, 31, is accused of stealing cryptocurrency from an individual. details surrounding the alleged theft have not been publicly released. His arrest follows a period of heightened scrutiny from Australian regulators regarding the use of digital currencies for illicit activities. According to his LinkedIn profile, Merrin is a “dedicated entrepreneur and investor with a passion for cryptocurrency, blockchain, and the health and wellness industry,” and has been “actively involved in building and supporting innovative businesses” since 2015.
Merrin founded Freeze Yourself, a cold immersion therapy service, in January 2023. He also operated as an angel investor through Merrin Investments from May 2015 to February 2025.
The arrest comes as Australian authorities strengthen law enforcement efforts against cryptocurrency-related crimes. In July, the Australian Transaction Reporting and Analysis Center (AUSTRAC) declared cryptocurrencies a major threat in its financial crime enforcement priorities, with CEO Brendan Thomas calling it “the most ambitious overhaul of Australia’s anti-money laundering laws in a generation.”
Regulators have expressed particular concern over the cross-border capabilities and ease of instant global transfers offered by digital currencies, citing their attractiveness to financial criminals. The increased focus on regulation reflects a global trend as governments grapple with the challenges posed by the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency landscape.
