Ontario judge denies self-represented crypto fraud defendant's mistrial request

Ontario Superior Court Justice Shaun Nakatsuru denied a mistrial request from self-described “Crypto King” Aiden Pleterski on Monday, ruling that the 27-year-old had ample opportunity to mount a defence. The judge said Pleterski had not produced any notes, computer or tablet, and had not reviewed Crown disclosure, suggesting he was not fully engaged with the evidence.

Pleterski faces fraud charges alleging he raised more than $36 million from investors but failed to invest any of the money, instead spending $16.3 million on personal expenses and returning $16.1 million as purported returns. A second money-laundering charge was withdrawn after the Crown presented its case.

Throughout the trial, Pleterski repeatedly told the court he did not know how to proceed and that he needed a lawyer, often refusing to cross-examine witnesses. Nakatsuru noted that Pleterski had been given months to prepare and that his lack of counsel was not unexpected. The judge encouraged the defendant to participate, describing his non-participation as a tactical choice aimed at supporting a future appeal.

Pleterski also sought several adjournments, citing dental pain, which the judge granted on one occasion but later denied when the defendant attempted to delay further testimony. Despite the judge’s instructions not to repeat his request for counsel in front of the jury, Pleterski continued to make such statements during cross-examination.

At the trial’s conclusion, Pleterski delivered a brief closing statement, asserting his innocence and claiming that a forced self-representation had hindered his defence.