Mills Criticizes SBF’s Cross-Examination
A professor from Stanford Law School, David Mills, who worked on the fraud trial of FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried, has called him the “worst person” he has ever seen during a cross-examination. Mills, who specialized in criminal law and white-collar crime, agreed to work on the case pro bono due to his relationship with Bankman-Fried’s parents. However, Mills expressed concerns that the case might have strained his relationship with them.
In his testimony, Bankman-Fried repeatedly claimed not to remember specific details about his time at FTX, against the advice of his lawyers. Mills criticized this behavior, stating that Bankman-Fried may be the worst person he has ever seen during a cross-examination.
An “Almost Impossible to Win” Case
Mills referred to former FTX and Alameda Research executives’ testimonies and described the case as “almost impossible to win.” During the nearly month-long trial, Bankman-Fried’s former associates and friends testified against him, including his ex-girlfriend Caroline Ellison as the prosecution’s star witness. Mills stated that when you have five people saying one thing and one person saying another, winning becomes unlikely.
Bankman-Fried’s trial has also had an impact on Mills’ approach to future cases. He stated that he would not emotionally involve himself on such a deep personal level in a case like this again.
“A Fantastic Lawyer”
Bankman and Fried are facing their own scrutiny in relation to the case. They are defendants in a civil suit filed by FTX, which accuses them of enriching themselves at the expense of the company. Bankman-Fried was convicted of providing special privileges to Alameda Research on FTX, allowing them to use customer funds for various expenses, including purchasing a $16.4 million home in the Bahamas for his parents.
Despite the strain on their relationship, Bankman and Fried expressed their love and gratitude for Mills, calling him a “fantastic lawyer” and an unwavering friend during this difficult time.
Hot Take: FTX Founder Faces Tough Trial and Personal Fallout
The fraud trial of FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried has been marred by criticism from his own lawyer, Professor David Mills, who called him the “worst” witness he has ever seen during a cross-examination. Mills also expressed concerns about the strain the trial may have put on his relationship with Bankman-Fried’s parents. The case was described as “almost impossible to win” due to testimonies from former associates and friends of Bankman-Fried.
Bankman-Fried’s conviction for providing special privileges to Alameda Research on FTX has also impacted his parents, who face a civil suit accusing them of enriching themselves at the company’s expense. Despite the fallout, Bankman and Fried showed appreciation for Mills’ support throughout the trial. The case serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by crypto founders and their legal battles.
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