Tech tycoon John McAfee found dead in Spanish jail cell after extradition decision

The eccentric entrepreneur was facing up to 30 years in a US jail if convicted.
The eccentric entrepreneur was facing up to 30 years in a US jail if convicted Photo credit: Getty Images

Tech tycoon John McAfee, best known for the antivirus software that bears his name, has been found dead in a Spanish jail cell.

It's believed the eccentric entrepreneur took his own life after reports the Spanish high court had authorised his extradition to the US.

McAfee, 75, had been arrested in October 2020 for allegedly evading tax and failing to pay taxes on his income.

He was also facing a cryptocurrency fraud case in New York.

Prosecutors in Tennessee unsealed a 10-count indictment after his arrest, alleging he made millions of dollars through speaking engagements, the rights to his story and promoting cryptocurrencies.

He was also alleged to have registered a car, a yacht and a property under someone else's name.

McAfee still had opportunities to appeal his conviction but his lawyer Javier Villalba said he could not stand more time in jail, reported Reuters.

"This is the result of a cruel system that had no reason to keep this man in jail for so long," Villalba said.

McAfee was a libertarian and twice tried - and failed - to secure the nomination of the Libertarian Party to run for President of the United States.

He was facing up to 30 years in prison if convicted.

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