FTX Founder's Defense Tactics in Sam Bankman-Fried Trial Attract Judge's Notice

Judge Kaplan Displeased at Defense’s Repetitive Questions

The ongoing trial of Sam Bankman-Fried, former CEO of the defunct crypto exchange FTX, has seen Judge Lewis Kaplan express his frustration with the defense’s tactics during cross-examination. On October 5, during the cross-examination of Adam Yedidia, a close friend of Bankman-Fried and former FTX employee, Judge Kaplan grew tired of the repetitive line of questioning from the defense. He urged them to move on and stated that they had already made their point. The defense attempted to establish that Bankman-Fried was not extravagant by asking about the car he drove, but Judge Kaplan sarcastically dismissed the question.

Then Came Wang’s Testimony Against Sam Bankman-Fried

After Matt Huang’s testimony, Gary Wang, co-founder of FTX, took the witness stand. However, the defense was unable to cross-examine him on that day. Following the examination, Judge Kaplan warned the defense against asking repetitive questions and wasting time unnecessarily. Despite this warning, when Wang was cross-examined on October 6, the defense continued with repetitive questioning. Judge Kaplan sustained objections from the prosecution and expressed his frustration with the defense counsel for repeatedly asking the same questions. The case was adjourned until October 10.

Hot Take: Judge Kaplan Asserts Control in Sam Bankman-Fried Trial

Judge Lewis Kaplan has made it clear that he will not tolerate repetitive questioning from the defense in the trial of former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried. His frustration was evident as he urged the defense to move on and expressed sarcasm towards their line of questioning. Judge Kaplan also warned against wasting time unnecessarily and sustained objections to repetitive questions during cross-examination. This assertive approach from the judge demonstrates his commitment to maintaining control and efficiency in the courtroom proceedings. As the trial continues, it will be interesting to see how the defense adjusts their tactics in response to Judge Kaplan’s displeasure.