By Tom Blitzer
Key Insights:
- Judge Kaplan gives Bankman-Fried’s team till September 1 to seek trial postponement.
- The defense cites access issues to discovery materials as a potential reason for delay.
- Bankman-Fried faces two trials with 12 criminal charges, pleading not guilty.
Recently, Judge Lewis Kaplan provided the defense team of ex-FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried a chance to seek a trial del ay until September 1. However, Kaplan stressed the importance of a valid justification for any postponement.
Challenges in Pre-Trial Preparations
Bankman-Fried’s legal team has yet to signal a desire to change the trial date. The primary concern is alleged difficulties in accessing discovery materials. The defense selected an aggressive trial date, aiming to clear Bankman-Fried’s name swiftly.
On the X platform, Inner City Press discussed Kaplan’s viewpoint. Kaplan said they should present valid reasons if the defendant sought a delay. A mere reference to the number of documents wouldn’t be enough; they must show a legitimate need.
The hearing on August 30 addressed not only the trial’s timing and a plea for Bankman-Fried’s interim release. This aims to aid his preparation for the October 3 criminal proceeding. On August 11, Kaplan denied Bankman-Fried’s bail, leading to his confinement at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. The defense points to concerns like sporadic internet connectivity and hurdles in obtaining pertinent documents, suggesting these conditions might hinder trial readiness.
In response, Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle Sassoon shared an alternate view. She mentioned that Bankman-Fried can review discovery materials for up to 70 hours weekly. Furthermore, his legal representatives can meet him daily. He has a legal team supporting him, not handling the case alone.
A Glimpse into the Defense Strategy
An important deadline is nearing. By September 1, the defense and prosecution must file their motions. Kaplan intends to address these the week after. September 4, Labor Day, is a recognized holiday in the U.S.
Details of Bankman-Fried’s defense approach have been outlined. The team plans to argue that he acted based on prior legal guidance. They maintain he followed counsel’s recommendations in his roles at FTX and Alameda Research.
Bankman-Fried faces a series of legal hurdles. He’s confronting 12 criminal counts spread over two trial periods. The first is scheduled for October 2, 2023, and the latter on March 11, 2024. Bankman-Fried has contested all the charges.
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