[en]
title: SEC Hacker Seeks 366-Day Sentence, Defying Prosecutors’ Push for Two Years
tags: SEC hack, Eric Council Jr, SIM swap, Bitcoin ETF, crypto crime, X account hack, identity theft, crypto regulation, Jeanine Pirro, cybersecurity
Eric Council Jr., the man behind the SEC X account hack, is asking for a 366-day prison sentence, challenging prosecutors who want two years for his role in a SIM swap attack that temporarily misled markets with fake Bitcoin ETF approval news.
One fake tweet, real consequences
In January 2024, Council hijacked the SEC’s official X (Twitter) account to post a false statement claiming the regulator had approved spot Bitcoin ETFs — triggering temporary market movement and confusion.
Though Council originally pleaded not guilty, he later changed his plea to guilty in February, admitting to conspiracy to commit aggravated identity theft and access device fraud.
Defense: One year is enough
In a May 13 court filing, Council’s lawyers argued that:
“A sentence of twelve months and one day serves the ends of justice… [It] sufficiently punishes the defendant… and deters future criminal conduct.”
His defense pointed out that while Council profited around $50,000 from similar schemes, his cooperation and guilty plea should earn him a lighter sentence.
Judge calls for clarity
Judge Amy Berman Jackson, who’s overseeing the case, told prosecutors to pinpoint the felony and provide supporting documentation by May 13. Council’s sentencing is scheduled for May 16.
Big-picture implications
While Council’s fate nears resolution, this case highlights vulnerabilities in major government accounts — and how one rogue message can shake public trust in crypto regulation.
Also looming: the District of Columbia could see new leadership, with former President Trump recently announcing Jeanine Pirro as interim US Attorney for D.C., a role that may impact future crypto-related prosecutions.