The US Justice Department has officially disbanded its National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team (NCET). The move signals a significant change in approach under the Trump administration.

Initially formed in 2022 during Biden's presidency, the team was responsible for investigating crypto-related fraud and financial crimes. Its closure reflects a broader move away from aggressive regulatory enforcement.

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche was recently confirmed as the department's second-in-command. He issued new guidelines directing prosecutors to prioritise cases involving terrorism, drug trafficking, and human trafficking.

Blanche criticised the previous administration's policy of 'regulation by prosecution'. He called for charges only where there is clear evidence of intentional legal violations.

The Justice Department will now avoid targeting crypto exchanges, mixers, and digital wallets based on their users' actions or minor regulatory issues. Agencies such as the SEC have already paused several high-profile cases in response to this shift.

Trump's support for crypto also extends to personal ties. His family reportedly holds a significant stake in token sales by World Liberty Financial. Trump has also previously launched his digital tokens.