FTX Founder Sam Bankman-Fried Denied Temporary Release by US Federal Judge
A US federal judge has rejected FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried’s request for temporary release, requiring him to stay in jail while preparing for his defense. Despite his legal team’s claim that he needs more time to prepare for the upcoming trial on October 3, Judge Lewis Kaplan maintained that Bankman-Fried’s actions led to his current situation. The judge had previously revoked Bankman-Fried’s bond after discovering that he had tampered with witnesses on two occasions.
Bankman-Fried’s defense argued that he requires access to online databases and the ability to contribute to a defense strategy document. However, the prosecution countered by stating that he already has regular access to laptops, hard drives, and limited internet usage. Judge Kaplan expressed skepticism and emphasized that Bankman-Fried is represented by competent lawyers who can handle the case.
Deadline Approaching for Former FTX Leader
With only three weeks left until the trial, Bankman-Fried will remain in custody. However, there is still an opportunity for further requests for pretrial release if they provide stronger arguments. The US government has also released proposed questions to vet potential jurors, aiming to assess their involvement with the collapsed exchange and their knowledge of the ongoing case.
Hot Take: FTX Founder Sam Bankman-Fried Denied Temporary Release Ahead of Trial
A federal judge has denied FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried’s request for temporary release, meaning he will remain in jail as he prepares for his upcoming trial. Despite his defense team’s arguments that he needs more time and access to online resources, the judge maintained that Bankman-Fried’s actions brought him into this predicament. The prosecution pointed out that he already has regular access to necessary materials, including laptops and hard drives. The judge emphasized that Bankman-Fried is represented by competent lawyers and dismissed claims of hindrance in his defense preparations. With the trial date approaching, Bankman-Fried will remain in custody unless a stronger argument for pretrial release is presented.