A British man who lost 8,000 Bitcoins in a landfill site a decade ago refuses to stop his hunting expedition despite multiple rejections from courts and authorities.
James Howells, an early Bitcoin adopter, had his bid to search a Newport landfill denied again by the UK Court of Appeals. Judge Christopher Nugee rejected his request, stating there was no “real prospect of success” or “compelling reason” to hear the case, according to a March 13 filing.
Frustrated by the decision, Howells criticized the UK legal system in a March 14 X post, calling it an “injustice system.” He now plans to take his case to the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), arguing that UK courts have violated his right to property and a fair trial.
While the ECHR cannot overturn UK court rulings, a decision in Howells’ favor could pressure UK courts to reconsider whether the law was applied correctly. He expects to file his claim in the coming weeks.
Howells’ 8,000 Bitcoin, worth around $660 million today, remains buried in Newport’s Docksway landfill. However, time is running out—the site is set to close between 2025 and 2026.
Despite repeated denials from Newport City Council, Howells remains determined. “The British establishment wants to sweep this under the carpet, and I will not let them,” he said. “It will not go away—no matter how long it takes!”
Despite numerous legal challenges James Howells continues to pursue the recovery of his Bitcoins. His decision to submit the case to the European Convention on Human Rights demonstrates his unwavering commitment.
The deadline does not stop Howells from continuing his efforts to recover his stolen property.
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