SBF’s Lawyers Voice Concerns Over Productivity in Prison
According to Sam Bankman-Fried’s (SBF) legal team, the prison environment is hindering their client’s productivity during the discovery process. They highlight issues such as slow internet speed and frequent interruptions as major concerns. The government conducted three internet speed tests in the cellblock area throughout the day, as stated in the filing.
Prison Formalities Disrupt SBF’s Review Workflow
Interruptions have significantly disrupted SBF’s intensive discovery process while he remains in prison. Reports suggest that the increasing volume of evidence against him has left him feeling overwhelmed. His lawyers have criticized the government for providing millions of pages of evidence less than six weeks before the trial. SBF can use an air-gapped laptop during specific hours on weekdays and weekends, but his legal team has documented various disruptions caused by prison staff.
Disruptions and Complaints in the Prison Environment
SBF has faced interruptions in the legal visiting room due to prison protocol, with prison staff requesting his return to his cell for a prisoner count. This has consumed approximately 7.5 hours of his time over three days, including a 50% time loss on one occasion. SBF has previously raised concerns about his prison experience, including a lack of food and medication supply. His lawyers have sought his temporary release on weekdays to enhance trial preparation, but the request was denied by the judge.
Hot Take: SBF Prepares for Trial with Expert Witnesses
In preparation for his upcoming trial, SBF plans to enlist the expertise of seven expert witnesses. He has allocated a budget of up to $1,200 per hour to compensate them. This move demonstrates SBF’s commitment to building a strong defense for the legal proceedings ahead.