Just In: DOJ to Summon FTX Clients, Investors, and Employees in SBF Case

Kelvin Munene Murithi
October 1, 2023
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CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
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The Department of Justice (DOJ) has confirmed its intent to bring forward former FTX customers, investors, and employees in the imminent trial against Sam Bankman-Fried, former FTX executive. Hence, the testimony will spotlight how these witnesses perceived their relationship with Bankman-Fried and his enterprise. Their interpretation of FTX’s approach towards customer assets will also be vital.

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DOJ’s Challenges Arise in International Testimonies

Significantly, these testimonies aim to offer insights into the interactions between the defendant and these witnesses. This move also includes their understanding of Bankman-Fried’s statements and actions, especially about FTX’s handling of assets. The DOJ plans to spotlight retail and institutional clients who transferred considerable assets to FTX, believing the platform would securely custody them.

Moreover, unique witness situations have arisen with one of the DOJ’s witnesses, “FTX Customer-1”, based in Ukraine. Consequently, because of the ongoing war, travel to the U.S. for testimony poses challenges. Hence, the DOJ has proposed video conferencing as an alternative. However, Bankman-Fried’s defense has yet to nod to this motion.

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SBF’s Defense Voices Concerns

However, the defense team for Bankman-Fried, led by attorney Mark Cohen, has expressed apprehensions regarding the proposed jury questions by the DOJ. These queries imply Bankman-Fried’s guilt, jeopardizing the essence of “innocent until proven guilty.

Besides this, the defense argues that these questions might not reveal jurors’ underlying biases, mainly if linked to personal experiences with cryptocurrencies. Furthermore, specific questions could lead the jury rather than extract genuine insights, potentially skewing the trial’s fairness.

As the jury selection process is set to commence on October 3, with the trial immediately following, all eyes are on this high-stakes legal showdown. This case, besides its immediate implications, also emphasizes the critical role of clear communication and objective questioning in ensuring justice.

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Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.

Why Trust CoinGape

CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights Read more…to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.

About Author
About Author
Kelvin Munene is a crypto and finance journalist with over 5 years of experience, offering in-depth market analysis and expert commentary . With a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Actuarial Science from Mount Kenya University, Kelvin is known for his meticulous research and strong writing skills, particularly in cryptocurrency, blockchain, and financial markets. His work has been featured across top industry publications such as Coingape, Cryptobasic, MetaNews, Cryptotimes, Coinedition, TheCoinrepublic, Cryptotale, and Analytics Insight among others, where he consistently provides timely updates and insightful content. Kelvin’s focus lies in uncovering emerging trends in the crypto space, delivering factual and data-driven analyses that help readers make informed decisions. His expertise extends across market cycles, technological innovations, and regulatory shifts that shape the crypto landscape. Beyond his professional achievements, Kelvin has a passion for chess, traveling, and exploring new adventures.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.