Bankman-Fried Fraud Trial: Prosecutors Allege He Funneled Funds, While Defense Paints Overwhelmed Entrepreneur
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Prosecutors allege Bankman-Fried committed fraud by funneling FTX customer funds to his investment firm Alameda Research. They argue he controlled both firms.
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Key witness Caroline Ellison, Bankman-Fried's ex-girlfriend, testified he directed her to commit financial crimes. Her explosive testimony supported prosecutors.
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The defense argues Bankman-Fried was an overwhelmed entrepreneur who delegated to deputies like Ellison. They say the firms grew too fast.
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Judge Kaplan has admonished Bankman-Fried's lawyers, revoking bail and denying motions. This could signal skepticism toward the defense.
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It's uncertain if Bankman-Fried will testify. Doing so would be risky but could help if he convinces jurors he lacked criminal intent.