The legal team representing Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder of FTX, a major cryptocurrency exchange, has once again requested his temporary release in the lead-up to his forthcoming trial.
They argue that current confinement conditions make it extremely challenging to adequately prepare for the complex legal proceedings.
In a recent court filing, Bankman-Fried’s defense emphasized the critical role he plays in reviewing extensive evidence, including thousands of pages of documents and financial records.
To provide the best possible defense, his lawyers need substantial time to consult with him outside of formal court hours, which could be severely restricted if he remains in detention.
To address any concerns about flight risk, the defense has proposed several conditions for Bankman-Fried’s temporary release.
These measures include having private security personnel escort him between approved locations and limiting his access to communication devices. These precautions aim to strike a balance between security and the need for effective trial preparation.
This latest request comes after the Second Circuit upheld Judge Kaplan’s decision to revoke Bankman-Fried’s $250 million bail.
During the proceedings, Judge Walker recognized the importance of facilitating communication between Bankman-Fried and his legal team to prevent potential appellate complications.
The upcoming trial, scheduled to commence on October 2, has garnered significant attention due to its high-profile nature.
Bankman-Fried faces charges of fraud and conspiracy related to the collapse of FTX, a cryptocurrency exchange that experienced a major crisis last November.
