The high-profile trial concerning a $25 million Ethereum maximal extractable value (MEV) bot exploit reached a critical juncture as jurors confirmed they remained deadlocked on reaching a unanimous verdict. With weekend deliberations approaching, defense counsel formally moved for a mistrial, citing the jury’s declaration that they were unable to progress toward consensus.
The case centers on allegations that sophisticated MEV trading software was used to manipulate blockchain transactions, resulting in approximately $25 million in losses from decentralized finance protocols. Prosecutors argue the defendant intentionally deployed automated systems to front-run and sandwich trade transactions on the Ethereum network.
Legal observers note the complexity of applying traditional financial regulations to decentralized finance mechanisms has presented significant challenges throughout the proceedings. The MEV bot case represents one of the first major legal tests concerning automated trading strategies in decentralized ecosystems.
Courtroom sources indicate the judge has ordered continued deliberations while considering the mistrial motion. The outcome could establish important precedents for legal accountability in blockchain-based financial activities and the boundaries of permissible automated trading strategies in decentralized networks.
