Alameda’s Sam Trabucco and Scaramucci Eyed as Witnesses in SBF Trial

Amid the unfolding legal drama surrounding the FTX crypto exchange’s downfall, the former Alameda Research CEO, Sam Trabucco, and Anthony Scaramucci, ex-spokesman for Donald Trump, are now potential witnesses. Their roles within the crypto industry and associations with Sam Bankman-Fried, the beleaguered FTX founder, could offer illuminating testimonies.

Trabucco’s Departure and FTX’s Downfall

Sam Trabucco, once a pillar in the FTX empire, took a surprising step back from Alameda Research last year. He stated his desire to “prioritize other things” and even celebrated his exit, mentioning a new boat purchase. 

However, the unforeseen FTX collapse months later led to questions regarding Trabucco’s decision to distance himself from the business. Since then, Trabucco has remained mostly out of the limelight.

Alameda Research, known for its association with the FTX crypto exchange, saw its co-founder, Bankman-Fried, step back from active management duties. Yet, the allegations suggest that Bankman-Fried may have channeled client money from FTX to make high-risk bets on Alameda.

Scaramucci’s Connection

Moreover, Anthony Scaramucci’s association with Bankman-Fried is undeniable. They co-hosted the Crypto Bahamas conference last April. Scaramucci’s SkyBridge Capital saw FTX acquire a 30% stake worth $40 million. His insights might shed light on the inner workings of FTX during its pivotal moments.

Bankman-Fried, currently facing a hefty seven criminal charges, including money laundering, initiated his trial journey in New York. The accusations emerged after billions vanished after the crypto brand’s bankruptcy.

Controversies Surrounding Testimonies

In addition, the defense is challenging the inclusion of a Ukrainian witness who claims substantial life savings losses due to the FTX collapse. The witness’s testimony might also highlight hardships from the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, Bankman-Fried’s legal team argues that such testimony might unduly sway the jury by evoking strong emotions unrelated to the charges.

Additionally, defense lawyers emphasize that testimony about FTX’s custody of assets from customers and investors shouldn’t be generalized. Such understanding, whether accurate or not, as proposed by the prosecution, cannot be deemed “directly relevant” to the charges. The defense stresses the need to cross-examine such testimonies, ensuring a balanced view.

The trial, expected to stretch over six weeks, has ignited significant interest, with these potential testimonies promising to make it even more riveting.