DOJ Wants SBF’s Bail Revoked Alleging Witness Tampering

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) on Friday requested the revocation of SBF’s bail in a letter sent to Judge Lewis Kaplan. The DOJ alleges that SBF attempted to tamper with witnesses on two occasions. This includes leaking his ex-girlfriend’s diary entries to the New York Times. These actions are related to the FTX and have raised concerns about witness interference.

Also Read: SBF Might Face Pre-Trial Jail Time As Prosecutors Cite Intimidation Tactics

SBF Tried To Intimidate Witnesses

As per the letter, DOJ stated that SBF was released on a bond on December 22, 2022, however, multiple bail modifications were made later on the defendant’s request. It mentioned that on January 15, 2023, the defendant initiated communication with the current General Counsel of FTX US who may be a witness at trial.

SBF allegedly contact FTX US lawyer over the encrypted messaging application Signal, as well as by email. SBF wrote that he would really love to reconnect and see if there’s a way for us to have a constructive relationship. He asked the lawyer if they can use each other as resources when possible, or at least vet things with each other.

DOJ highlighted that SBF has been using Singal for obstructive purposes, while its autodeletion of messages from communication channels has further complicated the investigation. It added that The court raised concerns about the risk of witness tampering, considering the defendant’s behavior. Read More Crypto News Here…

Will FTX Founder Go Free?

John Reed Stark, Former Chief, of the SEC Office of Internet Enforcement stated that Judge Kaplan has a few options. He may interpret SBF’s actions as an attempt to corruptly influence witnesses and decide to modify his bail conditions further or even revoke his bail entirely.

He justified that this will a close call by Judge Kaplan. However, If SBF will be allowed to remain free then the judge will undoubtedly reinforce his previous admonitions.