Top New York crypto regulator Adrienne Harris steps down after four-year tenure

Adrienne Harris, a superintendent of New York's top financial watchdog, which has been pivotal in cryptocurrency regulation in the state, is stepping down.

Harris is leaving her post after four years at the New York Department of Financial Services, said NY Gov. Kathy Hochul in a statement on Monday.

"It has been a privilege and an honor to serve New Yorkers, delivering positive outcomes for consumers; cementing DFS as a global regulatory leader; and transforming the Department’s operations," Harris said in a statement.

Politico earlier reported the news.  

Harris led NYDFS in bolstering the regulators' oversight of crypto, including building its Virtual Currency Unit, as well as releasing guidance on listing of cryptocurrencies and guidance on dollar-backed stablecoins . NYDFS has been active in regulating crypto in the state for years, having launched its BitLicense regime in 2015.

Harris also helped bring multiple charges against crypto firms during her time at the regulator, including against Genesis, Gemini, and Robinhood. She is also responsible for the agency's policy work around innovation and financial inclusion, and is partially responsible for helping to recover more than $725 million in restitution for New Yorkers.

Kaitlin Ascrow, a former Federal Reserve employee, will become acting superintendent on Oct. 18, according to the statement. Escrow is currently the regulator's executive deputy superintendent of research and innovation, where she oversees regulating crypto companies.