FTX Co-Founder Requests Adderall for Concentration During Trial
Sam Bankman-Fried, co-founder of FTX, has requested an extended-release Adderall prescription to aid his concentration during his ongoing criminal trial. Bankman-Fried’s lawyers sent a letter to Judge Lewis Kaplan on October 15, asking if he could take a 12-hour extended-release dose of Adderall before being transported to trial the next day.
SBF’s lawyer asked the judge to get Sam more adderall on Friday so he can focus.
They want extended release so he doesn’t lose focus during court sessions.— NFTNick.eth (@allnick) October 16, 2023
The lawyers explained that Bankman-Fried’s lack of the prescribed stimulant during trial hours has affected his ability to concentrate and participate effectively in presenting his defense. Despite this, Bankman-Fried has been making an effort to stay focused during the trial.
However, even if he is granted the medication, there is no guarantee that the extended-release dose will be effective. Therefore, the lawyers requested a one-day pause in the trial on October 17 if Bankman-Fried is unable to take the medication or if it does not work. They also proposed providing him with his prescription at the District Court during the trial.
The lawyers claimed that they had attempted to address the issue with the Bureau of Prisons but had not received a response to their inquiries.
Hot Take: FTX Co-Founder’s Request Raises Questions about Fairness
The request made by FTX co-founder Sam Bankman-Fried for Adderall to aid his concentration during his trial raises questions about fairness in the legal system. While it is understandable that individuals may require medication to enhance their ability to participate effectively in their defense, it is crucial to ensure a level playing field for all defendants.
Providing Bankman-Fried with the requested medication may set a precedent that could be exploited by other defendants seeking an advantage during trials. It is essential for judges to carefully consider such requests and weigh them against the principles of fairness and equality in the legal process.
Ultimately, the decision regarding Bankman-Fried’s request will shed light on how the legal system addresses the use of medications to enhance concentration during trials and whether it can strike a balance between accommodating individual needs and maintaining a fair and impartial trial process.