Sam Bankman-Fried Defense To Call Seven Expert Witnesses
Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder of FTX exchange, is set to face trial in October and plans to call seven expert witnesses to help with his defense. These expert witnesses will be paid $1,200 an hour and could cost up to $8,400 per hour in total. Expert witnesses are individuals with specialized knowledge who are called upon in court to explain complex or technical issues. SBF’s expert witnesses will testify on various topics, including campaign finance laws, the finances of FTX and Alameda Research, and the crypto exchange’s software infrastructure. It’s surprising that SBF is calling an expert witness for campaign finance laws, considering the charge was dropped.
DOJ Objects To SBF’s Expert Witnesses
The government has filed a motion to exclude SBF’s expert witnesses, arguing that their opinions lack basis and are irrelevant, prejudicial, and confusing to the jury. They believe the experts will offer legal conclusions that invade the court’s and jury’s power. The prosecutors have presented extensive arguments against each expert witness, stating that their testimonies should be excluded. They argue that Professor Smith’s testimony is irrelevant, confusing, and a waste of time, and Mr. Vinella’s testimony should be excluded based on qualifications, relevancy, and admissibility.
Hot Take
Sam Bankman-Fried’s decision to call seven expert witnesses for his defense in the upcoming trial shows his commitment to proving his innocence. However, the government’s objection to these witnesses suggests that they may not be seen as credible or relevant to the case. It remains to be seen how this will impact the trial and the ultimate outcome for SBF.
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