Former Australian Rugby Star Arrested Over Alleged Crypto Theft

By Vismaya V

Former Australian Rugby League star Trent Merrin has been arrested and charged over the alleged theft of $91,000 (AUD $140,000) in crypto, with police alleging the retired footballer used deceptive means to transfer funds from a victim's account.

The former Kangaroos and New South Wales Blues representative was taken into custody at his Barrack Point residence on Tuesday morning following a year-long investigation into the alleged theft from a 29-year-old man's crypto account, according to a report by the Sydney Morning Herald.

Police allege Merrin dishonestly obtained a financial advantage by deception through unauthorized crypto transfers. 

Officers seized electronic devices during the raid, which will undergo forensic examination to assist the ongoing inquiry, the report said.

Merrin was granted conditional bail and is scheduled to appear before Port Kembla Local Court on December 3.

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The former St George Illawarra Dragons, Penrith Panthers, and Leeds Rhinos forward retired from the NRL in 2021, after 250 first-grade games spanning a 15-year professional career that included representative honors for New South Wales and Australia.

Since hanging up his boots, Merrin has actively pursued business ventures in the crypto and wellness sectors. 

His LinkedIn profile describes him as a "dedicated entrepreneur and investor with a passion for crypto, blockchain, and the health and wellness industry," noting he has been "actively involved in building and backing innovative businesses" since 2015.

Merrin founded Freeze Yourself in January 2023, a cold plunge therapy service targeting the booming health and wellness market. He also operated as an angel investor through Merrin Investments from May 2015 to February 2025.

Merrin’s arrest comes as Australian authorities strengthen enforcement against crypto-related crime.

In July, the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre declared crypto a top threat in its financial crime enforcement priorities, with CEO Brendan Thomas calling it "the most ambitious overhaul of Australia's anti-money laundering laws in a generation."

Digital currencies have emerged as a particular concern for regulators due to their cross-border capabilities and the ease of instantaneous global transfers, which authorities say make them attractive to financial criminals.

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