Key Points:
- Arrest and Charges: Ben Armstrong’s night in jail, arrested for loitering and simple assault.
- Legal Ramifications: Understanding the consequences of loitering and simple assault charges in Georgia.
- Crypto Drama: The arrest’s connection to the ongoing dispute between Armstrong and Hit Network.
Ben Armstrong, the prominent crypto influencer previously known as ‘BitBoy,’ found himself spending a night behind bars on charges of loitering and simple assault, according to reports. Following a conspicuous arrest, Armstrong, who had been live-streaming outside the residence of a former associate on September 25th, spent approximately 8 hours in detention as confirmed by the Gwinnett County, Georgia, Sheriff’s Office.
Armstrong has since been released on bail, but he is now facing charges of “loitering/prowling” and “simple assault by placing another in fear,” with a bond set at $2,600 plus $40 in associated fees.
In Georgia, “loitering or prowling” generally refers to when an individual is present in a location or manner not typical for law-abiding citizens, under circumstances that reasonably raise alarm or immediate concern for the safety of people or property in the vicinity, as explained by Georgia-based law firm Lawson & Berry. The penalties for a misdemeanor in loitering or prowling may include a fine of up to $1,000, up to one year in jail, or a combination of both.
Meanwhile, “simple assault” can involve either attempting to inflict violent harm on another person or engaging in actions that make another person reasonably fear an imminent violent injury. Similar to loitering, a simple assault conviction in Georgia is typically treated as a misdemeanor, although there can be situations where it may be escalated, according to the law firm.
This is the hardest tweet I ever have had to make. I need to make a confession I never imagined I would admit
I’m not even really sure if I have the courage to say it but I’m going to do my best
Here it goes: My name is Ben and I’m a loiterer. I did 8 whole hours in the slammer
— Ben Armstrong (@BenArmstrongsX) September 26, 2023
After his release, Armstrong appeared to make light of his time behind bars, stating, “My name is Ben, and I’m a loiterer. I did a full 8 hours in the slammer.” Later, he announced, “I’m taking a week-long break from social media,” before humorously adding, “No, not because of the memes,” on September 27th. Armstrong’s mug shot has gained attention on social media within the crypto community.
— db (@tier10k) September 26, 2023
On the evening of September 25th, Armstrong visited the residence of his former associate, Carlos Diaz, claiming that Diaz had possession of his Lamborghini. The live-stream and ensuing ranting lasted approximately 19 minutes before local law enforcement arrived and arrested Armstrong.
Crypto trader “EmperorBTC,” with 360,000 followers, used the incident as a teaching moment, emphasizing the importance of the situation.
Bitboy being arrested should be a lesson for everyone.
1. If you scam, karma will get you. If not now, then someday, but for sure.
2. Money gives you Power but Uncontrolled Power turns you insane.
3. Take care of your mental health, the world is waiting for you to breakdown.
— Emperor👑 (@EmperorBTC) September 26, 2023
This recent controversy stems from the ongoing dispute between Ben Armstrong and Hit Network, the entity controlling the “BitBoy Crypto” brand. In August, the firm and its executives severed ties with Armstrong, citing concerns related to substance abuse and financial harm to employees.
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