The Crown Prosecution Service has authorized charges against a National Crime Agency (NCA) officer, Paul Chowles, for the alleged theft of Bitcoin in 2017. The Bitcoin's value, around $75,000 then, has increased significantly to over $4.2 million.

Chowles faces 15 charges, including theft and converting criminal property. The allegations relate to an investigation into online organized crime. He is due in Liverpool Magistrates' Court on April 25.

The UK has taken steps to allow NCA officers and police to seize crypto from suspects without arrests, highlighting ongoing efforts to regulate digital assets in the country.