bankrupt exchange and crypto hedge fund amid fraud convictions
States are moving to prosecute individuals pardoned by the president for federally defined crimes, arguing federal mercy cannot shield conduct that violates state law. Recent cases show Arkansas and Arizona pursuing accountability when federal clemency has occurred. The effort signals a shift in how governors might check presidential overreach.
A wave of updates across multiple outlets shows former FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried pursuing a presidential pardon after completing his 25-year sentence, while Trump allies keep courting clemency. The reports, drawn from DOJ filings and interviews, highlight continued political leverage around the high-profile case.
A three-judge panel of the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld Bankman-Fried's fraud conviction and 25-year sentence, ruling the government’s evidence was robust. Bankman-Fried’s lawyers may pursue further appeals; he is jailed in California and remains eligible for release in 2044.
The 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld Sam Bankman-Fried’s conviction on fraud and conspiracy charges, stating that prosecutors’ evidence was robust. The court rejected defense claims of trial unfairness, noting that Bankman-Fried’s actions showed him using FTX funds as a personal piggy bank while assuring customers funds were safe. He remains jailed with sentencing details and potential appeals still under discussion.