Bitcoin Core Developer Jon Atack Detained in El Salvador Following Neighborhood Disagreement

Renowned Bitcoin developer Jon Atack was taken into custody in El Salvador over the weekend due to a dispute with a neighbor, prompting a wave of concern online before his release approximately an hour later. Atack, a key contributor to Bitcoin Core, took to social media platform X to share that his phone and passport were confiscated by the police, effectively cutting him off from the outside world and sparking anxiety within the crypto community. Initially, law enforcement informed him that he might be sent to a nearby prison, but fortunately, this outcome was avoided. The incident appears to be related to a property dispute rather than Atack's work in the crypto sphere. According to Stacy Herbert, director of El Salvador's National Bitcoin Office and a strong supporter of President Nayib Bukele, Atack's neighbor accused him of 'violence against women.' El Salvador's 2012 law, 'LEIV,' which translates to 'life free from violence for women,' classifies violent speech and threats against women as criminal offenses. Atack was released shortly after being handcuffed, describing the officers as 'professional and friendly.' He expressed gratitude to his supporters online, stating, 'This was my first experience in handcuffs, and I hope it will be my last.'