Former FTX CEO SBF Allegedly Influences Witnesses, Prosecutor Seeks To Restrict Bail Terms

U.S. Attorneys request restrictions on Bankman-Fried’s use of encrypted messaging and communication with former FTX and Alameda employees following allegations of witness tampering, court documents show. Prosecution argues messages suggest an attempt to influence witness testimony, who was instructed to liquidate investments to cover a $45 million deficit in FTX US’s balance sheet.

In the court document, it is stated that:

“Specifically, on January 15, 2023, the defendant contacted Witness-1 over the encrypted messaging application Signal, as well as by email, and wrote, in part: “I would really love to reconnect and see if there’s a way for us to have a constructive relationship, use each other as resources when possible, or at least vet things with each other.” The defendant has also contacted other current and former FTX employees.”

Source: https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.nysd.590940/gov.uscourts.nysd.590940.50.0.pdf

Furthermore, it is mentioned that:

“This is particularly concerning given that the defendant is aware that Witness-1 has information that would tend to inculpate the defendant. The Government has interviewed Witness-1, who has firsthand knowledge of the defendant’s conduct during the charged conspiracies, including during the collapse of FTX in November 2022. Witness-1 participated in Signal and Slack communications with the defendant and a small group of company insiders during the relevant events of November 2022.”

Source: https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.nysd.590940/gov.uscourts.nysd.590940.50.0.pdf