Sam Bankman-Fried’s Attorneys Seek to Cross-Examine Every Witness
Attorneys representing Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder of FTX cryptocurrency exchange, have sent a letter to Judge Lewis A. Kaplan requesting permission to cross-examine every witness in the ongoing trial. The defense claims that evidence-related issues have emerged and are likely to continue with witnesses testifying after former Alameda CEO Caroline Ellison. They aim to elicit testimony regarding the nature of the relationship between FTX and its customers, as well as the materiality of alleged misrepresentations or omissions.
Defense Requests Unrestricted Cross-Examination
The defense is not seeking a ruling until Caroline Ellison finishes her testimony. They also request that the court does not limit their ability to cross-examine witnesses. The judge has denied the defense’s request to cross-examine former FTX CTO Gary Wang and Caroline Ellison, stating that the issue of counsel involvement in loan structuring is no longer relevant. Sam Bankman-Fried’s lawyers have also asked the judge to preclude prosecutors from eliciting similar expert testimony from lay witnesses, arguing that it lacks supporting facts and reliability.
Caroline Ellison’s Testimony Reveals New Information
In her testimony, Caroline Ellison revealed hidden facts about Sam Bankman-Fried’s behavior and illicit transactions. She stated that she was directed by Bankman-Fried to use FTX customer funds to repay Alameda loans. This information came to light through a recording played in court. It suggests that Ellison did not commit these actions independently but under Bankman-Fried’s orders.
Hot Take: Defense Seeks Full Examination of Witnesses
The defense in Sam Bankman-Fried’s trial is requesting the opportunity to cross-examine every witness, aiming to uncover more information about the relationship between FTX and its customers. They argue that certain evidence-related issues have emerged and need to be addressed. Additionally, Caroline Ellison’s testimony has revealed new details about Bankman-Fried’s involvement in illicit transactions. It remains to be seen how the judge will rule on the defense’s request for unrestricted cross-examination and their objection to prosecutors eliciting expert testimony from lay witnesses without supporting facts.
By
By
By
By
By
By