FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried’s legal representation has voiced concerns that their client is unable to adequately prepare for his upcoming trial due to his current jail conditions. These include limited access to computers, necessary concentration-enhancing medications, and a diet compatible with his vegan lifestyle.
These issues were raised during a Manhattan federal court hearing, where Bankman-Fried pleaded not guilty to seven charges, including wire fraud and multiple conspiracy counts. His trial is scheduled for October 3.
Bankman-Fried was extradited from the Bahamas in December after prosecutors claimed he used billions in FTX customer deposits for his business ventures, speculative investments, charitable donations, and illegal campaign contributions aimed at influencing cryptocurrency regulation in Washington.
His bail was revoked 10 days ago, when Judge Lewis A. Kaplan agreed with prosecutors that Bankman-Fried had repeatedly attempted to influence witnesses against him.
Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn presided over Tuesday’s hearing, agreeing to look into the possibility of the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn providing necessary medications and a vegan-friendly diet, but declining to overrule the rulings regarding computer access.
Bankman-Fried’s lawyers argue that the current conditions are making it impossible for their client to effectively prepare for his trial.
Until his bail was revoked, Bankman-Fried had been residing with his parents under strict limitations regarding his access to electronic devices. His bail was revoked following a probable cause finding of attempted witness tampering.