Former Inmate Reveals Details of SBF’s Life in Prison
A former inmate at the Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center has shared insights into Sam Bankman-Fried’s experience in prison leading up to his high-profile fraud trial.
SBF Faced Extortion Attempts
Talking to crypto content creator Tiffany Fong, Gene Borello, a former inmate, claimed that Bankman-Fried was once on suicide watch and went without eating or showering for several days. Borello and Bankman-Fried were housed together as the FTX founder awaited his trial. Borello stated that another inmate tried to extort money from the “timid” Bankman-Fried, suggesting he pay for protection due to his wealth. Borello intervened, resulting in a physical altercation and his own time in solitary confinement.
Sentence Length and Guilty Verdict
Borello also mentioned that Bankman-Fried did not fully grasp the potential sentence he faced. The FTX founder believed he had a 50/50 chance of avoiding jail time and thought he would receive only a 20-year sentence. However, Bankman-Fried could face a maximum of 115 years in prison. On November 2nd, he was found guilty on seven fraud-related charges, surprising Bankman-Fried who had not been worried about the case.
Bankman-Fried’s Release and Judge Kaplan
Prior to the trial, Bankman-Fried was released on $250 million bail, which was later revoked due to evidence of witness tampering. Borello cautioned Bankman-Fried about Judge Lewis A. Kaplan, known as “the most vicious judge in the Southern District of New York.” Borello, currently out of prison, has not had contact with Bankman-Fried since before the trial.
“A Very Interesting Character”
Borello described Bankman-Fried as “a very interesting character” and shared his perspective on the case, questioning whether a non-violent crime deserved a life sentence.
Hot Take: New Insights into Bankman-Fried’s Prison Experience
A former inmate has shed light on Sam Bankman-Fried’s time in prison leading up to his fraud trial. The revelations include Bankman-Fried’s struggles on suicide watch, attempts of extortion, and his lack of understanding regarding the potential sentence he faced. The inmate also warned Bankman-Fried about the reputation of Judge Kaplan. These new details provide a glimpse into the FTX founder’s experience behind bars and his mindset prior to the guilty verdict. The story continues to unfold as Bankman-Fried awaits sentencing.