The Department of Justice (DOJ) has affirmed its plan to summon former FTX clients, investors, and staff as witnesses in the upcoming trial involving Sam Bankman-Fried, the former FTX executive. This will shed light on how these individuals viewed their interactions with Bankman-Fried and his company.ย
The DOJ submitted a letter motion in limine on Sept. 30, to enable them to get the interpretation of the witnesses on FTXโs treatment of customer assets, which will hold significant importance.
Importantly, these testimonies are intended to provide valuable perspectives on the interactions between the accused and these witnesses. This initiative also encompasses their comprehension of Bankman-Friedโs remarks and conduct, particularly regarding FTXโs asset management. The DOJ intends to emphasize the experiences of both retail and institutional clients who entrusted substantial assets to FTX with the belief that the platform would safeguard them securely.
Furthermore, a distinctive situation has emerged concerning one of the DOJโs witnesses, referred to as โFTX Customer-1,โ who resides in Ukraine. Given the ongoing conflict, there are difficulties associated with traveling to the United States to provide testimony. Consequently, the DOJ has suggested using video conferencing as a viable alternative. However, Bankman-Friedโs defense has not yet approved this proposal.
Nonetheless, the legal team representing Bankman-Fried, led by lawyer Mark Cohen, has voiced concerns about the jury questions put forth by the DOJ. According to Bankman-Friedโs defense, these interrogations insinuate guilt on Bankman-Friedโs part, potentially undermining the principle of โinnocent until proven guilty.โ
Additionally, the defense contends that these inquiries may not effectively uncover the jurorsโ inherent biases, especially if related to their personal encounters with cryptocurrencies. Moreover, certain questions could inadvertently guide the juryโs perspective instead of eliciting authentic insights, possibly compromising the trialโs impartiality.
Related: Sam Bankman-Friedโs lawyer challenges US govโt proposed jury questions
With the jury selection scheduled to start on Oct. 3, closely followed by the trial, the spotlight is firmly on this high-stakes legal confrontation. This case underscores not only its immediate consequences but also underscores the vital importance of transparent communication and unbiased questioning in upholding the principles of justice.
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