A federal judge has denied former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried’s request to extend his sentencing process and delay a presentencing interview with the U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services System. This decision comes as Bankman-Fried faces a possible second trial on additional charges, set for March 11. The sentencing hearing is currently scheduled for March 28.
Attorneys for Bankman-Fried filed a letter on Wednesday, requesting the extension and arguing that he should not begin the sentencing process on the current charges until the severed counts are resolved. They also sought a delay in the presentence interview and other deadlines. In their letter, the attorneys stated, “Doing so could potentially result in a separate PSR and a separate sentencing hearing on conduct that was already part of the Government’s proof at trial.”
Bankman-Fried was convicted last month on seven charges of fraud and conspiracy. Prosecutors alleged that he misappropriated funds belonging to FTX customers and investors, as well as Alameda Research’s lenders. The case is being overseen by District Judge Lewis Kaplan of the Southern District of New York.
In response to Bankman-Fried’s motion, Judge Kaplan denied the request, noting that the defense did not object when the March 28 date for the sentencing hearing was initially set. He also emphasized that Bankman-Fried had already been given ample time, over six weeks, to prepare for the presentence interview, which was scheduled to take place as planned.
While the denial of the request means that the sentencing process will proceed as originally scheduled, there is a possibility that the Department of Justice may choose to proceed with a second trial on charges of bank fraud and conspiracy under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. If that occurs, the sentencing process may be further delayed.
Bankman-Fried’s legal challenges come after a significant trial that resulted in his conviction on several serious charges. The case alleges a misappropriation of funds from various sources, including FTX customers, investors, and Alameda Research’s lenders. The outcome of the trial could have long-lasting implications for Bankman-Fried and his involvement in the cryptocurrency industry.
For now, the denial of the extension request means that Bankman-Fried must proceed with the presentencing interview and adhere to the original sentencing timeline. As the legal proceedings continue, the crypto community will closely watch for any updates on potential future trials and the ultimate consequences Bankman-Fried may face for his alleged misconduct.
Source: [coindesk](https://www.coindesk.com/policy/2023/12/20/judge-denies-sam-bankman-fried-request-for-a-longer-sentencing-process/?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=rss&utm_campaign=headlines)