Bankman-Fried struggles in unusual FTX trial dry-run; judge doubts 'advice of counsel' defense after shaky testimony

Sam Bankman-Fried took the stand in an unusual dry-run hearing without the jury present. His testimony was smooth under direct but prosecutors eviscerated him during cross-examination.

Bankman-Fried blamed previous FTX lawyers for illegal activities like commingling customer funds. Prosecutors questioned whether he actually received that advice.

The judge was skeptical of Bankman-Fried's "advice of counsel" defense and his ability to blame lawyers for illegal actions.

Prosecutors highlighted inconsistencies in Bankman-Fried's testimony, like his lack of knowledge of key documents and vague answers.

The judge will decide if Bankman-Fried can testify before the jury after his shaky dry-run performance.