• Sam Bankman-Fried, founder of FTX, has been accused of criminal fraud and was released on bond.
• During a recent hearing to discuss the case, Federal Judge Lewis Kaplan warned that he could potentially revoke Bankman-Fried’s bond if he continues violating court orders.
• The judge expressed doubt that Bankman-Fried was using a VPN to watch football as originally stated by prosecutors.
Sam Bankman-Fried Accused of Criminal Fraud
Sam Bankman-Fried, founder of FTX cryptocurrency exchange, has been accused of criminal fraud and was released on bond.
Judge Warns Revocation Proceedings Possible
During a hearing to discuss the case earlier this week, Federal Judge Lewis Kaplan warned that he could potentially revoke Bankman-Fried’s bond if he continues violating court orders. Prosecutors had alleged that Bankman-Fried had violated a previous court order against using encrypted technology when he used a virtual private network (VPN) to watch the Super Bowl. They urged the court to consider stricter measures such as blocking Bankman-Fried from using cellphones, computers or any internet-connected devices except in limited, case-related circumstances.
Defense Argues Against „Draconian“ Measures
Bankman-Fried’s lawyer Mark Cohen pushed back against the measures proposed by prosecutors calling them “draconian.“ He argued that his client needed access to the internet and applications like Google Docs in order to effectively prepare for his coming trial.
Judge Expresses Doubt Over Reason For VPN Use
However Judge Kaplan seemed unconvinced and even suggested that the government’s proposed measures might not be enough. He questioned why someone would need to use a VPN in order to simply watch a football game on TV which can be done for free.
Conclusion
Regardless of what happens next with Sam Bankman-Fried’s case, it is clear that Judge Lewis Kaplan is taking it seriously and will not hesitate to take action should any further violations occur in regard to bail conditions set by the court.