XRP Lawsuit Update: SEC’s Leadership Reassignment Sparks Digital Asset Controversy

• Ripple appeal moves forward as new SEC leadership and brief submissions raise expectations for digital asset trial outcomes.
• Law expert Jorge Tenreiro, promoted to a technical department, signs appeals against Judge Torres’ ruling on XRP sales.

The US Securities and Exchange Commission has changed its internal structure this year. The agency moved Jorge Tenreiro to the computer systems management department. The decision follows an ongoing review of operational assignments related to digital asset cases. 

Furthermore, the agency reassigns tasks to meet its regulatory demands. Moreover, the change adjusts internal responsibilities. Additionally, this step appears to prepare the office for upcoming legal actions.

Jorge Tenreiro began working at the Commission 11 years ago. He advanced to serve as Chief Litigation Counsel in 2024. He signed the notice of appeal in the case against Ripple. The filing opposes Judge Torres’ ruling that Ripple’s programmatic sales of XRP via centralized exchanges did not break established rules. 

However, some parties linked to Ripple have questioned his role in the appeal. Also, several legal observers have noted concerns about his involvement. Furthermore, his assignment in the appeal has raised doubts about internal case management.

John Deaton, an attorney for numerous XRP investors, criticized Tenreiro during recent legal proceedings. He compared Tenreiro with former SEC Chairman Gary Gensler , stating that both displayed a similar way of working. 

Jorge Tenreiro was appointed Chief Litigation Counsel at the SEC. I can assure you he and @GaryGensler are two peas 🫛 in the same SEC pod.

Jorge Tenreiro misled a federal judge when he claimed I should not be appointed amicus counsel on behalf of XRP holders in the @Ripple … https://t.co/txE3cvJc4W pic.twitter.com/kV9KgSxgeb

— John E Deaton (@JohnEDeaton1) December 3, 2024

Besides, Deaton recalled a personal confrontation in which Tenreiro argued against his appointment as amicus counsel. 

Meanwhile, Gensler left his post less than a month ago. Also, Mark Uyeda now leads the agency with an approach that differs from his predecessor. This leadership change may affect how the Ripple case is handled.

The SEC continued its legal actions in early 2025. The agency submitted its opening brief in January, maintaining that XRP must be treated as a security. The filing establishes a deadline of April 16, 2025, for further brief submissions. Furthermore, the legal documents state that XRP classification applies regardless of the purchase method. 

Additionally, certain financial institutions have voiced their support for the agency’s stance. Lastly, the non-profit Better Markets filed a brief that argues XRP tokens represent an investment contract. The document explains that buyers expected profits from efforts by others, a view that the SEC maintains.