“Sam Bankman-Fried Found Guilty: Inside the Courtroom Drama“
Just before 8 p.m. on Thursday, Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder of crypto exchange FTX, was found guilty on all seven counts against him. The courtroom fell silent as the forewoman repeated the word “guilty” seven times into a microphone. Bankman-Fried remained composed, showing no emotion. The jury took less than three hours to reach their verdict, concluding that he had defrauded FTX customers and lenders to its sister hedge fund.
The trial took place in room 26b of the Southern District of New York’s federal courthouse. Journalists flocked to the building during the five-week trial. However, strict rules regarding electronics meant that reporters had to find workarounds. Some secured seats in the media room with access to electricity and internet, while others relied on CNBC’s photographers to store their electronics in nearby cars.
To keep warm during the cold days, having a seat in a car was crucial. Reporters constantly ran through security checkpoints from the courtroom to file reports, often wearing running shoes as part of their daily attire. Those without a seat or trusted colleagues used the court’s coat check system or carried supplies in clear bags to expedite security checks.
With no electronics allowed inside the courthouse, journalists relied on notebooks, pens, and highlighters for note-taking. A non-smart watch was essential, as were concealed snacks and opaque water bottles that could hold coffee. Lunch breaks took place at a cheap cafe on the 8th floor of the building.
Only 21 seats were reserved for the public and journalists in the courtroom, leading some reporters to prefer overflow courtrooms on higher floors where they could eat and drink freely. Overflow rooms attracted various individuals, including actors like Martin Shkreli and Ben McKenzie, along with journalists and interested civilians.
As time went on, these individuals formed a close bond, helping each other with information and quotes during elevator rides or breaks. After five weeks of being cut off from the outside world, a sense of camaraderie developed among them.
On the evening of the verdict, the courtroom was filled with anticipation. The gallery was packed with familiar faces, bundled up in layers of jackets and sweaters due to the dropping temperatures. Opaque blinds covered the windows, preventing anyone from seeing outside. The jury had deliberated for an hour before reaching their decision.
Hot Take: Justice Served
The guilty verdict against Sam Bankman-Fried marks a significant moment in the world of cryptocurrency. It demonstrates that fraudulent activities will not go unpunished, and that even high-profile figures are subject to legal consequences. This trial also sheds light on the challenges faced by journalists covering such cases, from strict electronic device rules to navigating security checkpoints.
The camaraderie formed among reporters, actors, and other individuals involved in the trial reflects a shared experience of being cut off from the outside world. Ultimately, this trial reminds us that justice can prevail even in complex and high-stakes situations, leaving a lasting impact on both the crypto industry and those who witnessed it firsthand.
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