Sam Bankman-Fried, the co-founder of FTX, appeared in a New York courtroom for the start of his multibillion-dollar fraud trial with a noticeably leaner and well-groomed appearance. The 31-year-old arrived for jury selection dressed in a navy suit that seemed larger on him than before, sitting in the middle of the courtroom surrounded by his legal team. US District Judge Lewis Kaplan ordered that Bankman-Fried wear one of three suits while he is detained at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center. This order came after Bankman-Fried’s bail was revoked for allegedly attempting to tamper with witnesses.
Bankman-Fried’s physical transformation aligns with his lawyers’ claims that he was surviving on a meager diet and lacking vegan meal options while in custody. His most striking change was the trimming of his thick black curls, which have become a trademark and even inspired internet memes.
During the court proceedings, Bankman-Fried appeared more composed and less restless than in previous appearances. He spent most of his time at the defense table typing on a laptop, which, per Kaplan’s order, was unable to access the internet. Bankman-Fried occasionally consulted with his lawyers and observed the potential jurors.
One prospective juror disclosed that she worked for Insight Venture Partners, a tech-focused private equity firm that lost money investing in FTX. Despite her connection to the case, she believed she could remain impartial. However, she expressed concern about the possibility of imposing capital punishment on Bankman-Fried. Judge Kaplan reassured her that the death penalty was not on the table, as the most severe charges against Bankman-Fried carry a maximum prison sentence of 20 years. The woman may be excused from jury duty.
Other potential jurors mentioned their familiarity with the case through press coverage. One individual admitted to a negative perception of cryptocurrency over the past year, while another struggled to understand how it works. The judge acknowledged the common sentiment and raised the possibility of Bankman-Fried testifying in his own defense, emphasizing that the decision ultimately rests with him, regardless of his lawyers’ counsel.
The trial continues with the jury selection process, as Bankman-Fried faces charges related to a multibillion-dollar fraud scheme.
Credit: The Star : Tech Feed
