Reports say that Senior Bitcoin Core developer Jon Atack was briefly detained over the weekend in El Salvador following a dispute with a neighbor. The incident triggered a wave of concern across social media after he revealed authorities had confiscated his phone and passport.
Atack, who has been residing in El Salvador, took to social media to say that he was arrested on “false accusations.” He also said he was released approximately an hour later with no charges.
The incident drew swift online attention from members of the global Bitcoin community, with some expressing alarm over Atack’s well-being and the potential implications for other foreign Bitcoiners in the country.
How did authorities handle the outrage?
Stacy Herbert, Director of El Salvador’s National Bitcoin Office and a key media representative for President Nayib Bukele’s administration, addressed the situation on social media.
According to Herbert, the altercation arose from a verbal dispute between Atack and a female neighbor. She said the woman contacted police, alleging “violence against women”, and verbal abuse.
Herbert stated Atack retained legal counsel and was treated fairly throughout the process, emphasizing that law enforcement acted professionally.
Atack later confirmed that he was uncuffed and released with all personal items returned, calling the officers “professional and friendly.”
“Oh, and I gave the policemen my contact to help set them up with bitcoin or go surfing or riding. They were really that cool.”
Jon Atack Detained in El Salvador Over Neighbor Dispute
Meanwhile, Atack’s brief detention highlights the growing complexities facing expatriates in El Salvador, particularly those drawn by the country’s status as a Bitcoin-friendly destination. While no charges were filed, the episode underscored how non-financial conflicts can swiftly escalate into national headlines when they involve high profile foreign residents.