DOJ Prosecutors Oppose SBF’s Request for Witness Cross-Examination in Landmark Case
US Department of Justice (DOJ) prosecutors have opposed Sam Bankman-Fried’s (SBF) attorneys’ request to cross-examine witnesses and reconsider earlier rulings in a landmark case. The prosecutors have sent a letter to Judge Lewis A. Kaplan, requesting the dismissal of the defense’s motion for cross-examination and reconsideration.
The DOJ prosecutors argue that the defendant’s arguments regarding theories of wire fraud are incorrect and that seeking investor testimony by prosecutors regarding their understanding of the defendant’s representations is appropriate. However, they have no objection to cross-examination by SBF’s defense team, but they want to focus their questions on topics such as FTX’s terms of service.
Earlier this month, Judge Kaplan denied the defense’s request to cross-examine former FTX Chief Technology Officer Gary Wang regarding the involvement of FTX lawyers in structuring loans by Alameda Research. SBF’s lawyers now seek to cross-examine former Alameda Research CEO Caroline Ellison based on similar arguments.
In response, Sam Bankman-Fried’s attorneys sent a letter to Judge Kaplan, requesting to cross-examine every witness after Caroline Ellison’s testimony. However, the prosecutors believe this motion should also be denied.
The prosecutors further argue that the defense team’s requests for clarification and reconsideration on certain aspects of the court’s rulings are irrelevant. The judge has already precluded the defense from mentioning Anthropic, cross-examining Wang and Ellison, and discussing FTX’s regulation in the US. SBF’s attorneys claim that these decisions could significantly impact the direction and outcomes of the proceedings.
During the testimonies of Gary Wang and Caroline Ellison, it became apparent that Sam Bankman-Fried misappropriated customer funds for FTX deals, engaged in illegal transactions, purchased properties, and engaged in market manipulation to keep Bitcoin prices below $20,000.
This case is closely watched by industry insiders and the general public, as it sheds light on the alleged activities of prominent figures in the cryptocurrency world. The arguments presented by both the defense and prosecution will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of this landmark case.
As the litigation process progresses, it remains to be seen how Judge Kaplan will rule on the defense’s motion for cross-examination and reconsideration. The court’s decisions will shape the course of the trial and potentially set important precedents for future cases involving similar allegations.
Disclaimer: The above article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The information provided does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Readers are encouraged to consult with qualified legal professionals for advice on their specific circumstances.
