Proposed Jury Instructions
The trial of Sam Bankman-Fried, which is currently underway, reached a crucial phase when the U.S. Department of Justice and Bankman-Fried’s defense team submitted their proposed jury instructions. These instructions are important as they will guide the jury in making their decision on Bankman-Fried’s case.
Judge Kaplan has the responsibility of explaining the seven charges against Bankman-Fried to the jury. Both the prosecution and defense have provided their suggestions for the jury instructions, and it is up to the judge to choose one or find a middle ground between them.
The U.S. Department of Justice’s proposal focuses on highlighting the seriousness of the accusations against Bankman-Fried in order to build a strong case. On the other hand, Bankman-Fried’s defense team aims to present alternative interpretations of the statutes, pointing out potential issues with the prosecution’s argument. Judge Kaplan plays a crucial role in evaluating both proposals and determining the most appropriate jury instruction.
Guidelines Laid Out
Both the prosecution and defense agree on the need for clear explanations of the charges and a closer examination of the indictment. Additionally, they have provided specific guidance on their unique concerns about the case and how the jury should weigh particular testimonies. These proposals have been a source of contention since before the trial began and were finally submitted on Thursday.
Defense Speaks
The defense’s brief argues that a witness’s personal feelings or beliefs about what should or should not be prohibited by law are not sufficient grounds for convicting someone. Instead, the defense emphasizes that each element of a charge must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt for a unanimous verdict to be reached.
The defense also requested clarification from Judge Kaplan regarding whether “property” includes intangible interests, a point on which the DOJ disagrees.
Brief By The Prosecutors
The prosecutors want the judge to make it clear to the jury that the DOJ is alleging Bankman-Fried misappropriated customer and investor funds for personal use. They aim to refute any argument that Bankman-Fried’s actions related to FTX and Alameda were connected to charitable giving.
The Department of Justice’s brief states that Bankman-Fried’s emphasis on “effective altruism” in his public statements does not serve as a defense against fraud or other criminal charges.
Similarly, the DOJ filing argues that other paragraphs in the defense’s submission do not provide factual defenses to the accusations made by the prosecution.
The court proceedings were suspended on Thursday and will resume on October 26.
Hot Take: Key Developments in Sam Bankman-Fried Trial
The ongoing trial of Sam Bankman-Fried has reached a critical phase with the submission of proposed jury instructions. The U.S. Department of Justice and Bankman-Fried’s defense team have presented their suggestions, highlighting the seriousness of the accusations and offering alternative interpretations of the statutes, respectively. Judge Kaplan holds the responsibility of evaluating these proposals and determining the most suitable jury instruction. Both sides agree on the need for clear explanations of charges and closer examination of the indictment. The defense emphasizes that personal beliefs are not sufficient grounds for conviction, while the prosecution aims to dispel any connection between Bankman-Fried’s actions and charitable giving. The trial will resume on October 26.
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