FTX Founder Sam Bankman-Fried Appears for Jury Selection

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The search for 12 jurors to preside over the trial of FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried commenced in New York, with a rigorous vetting process involving inquiries into the potential jurors’ perspectives on cryptocurrencies and their capacity to maintain impartiality in the high-profile criminal case.

The trial, anticipated to span six weeks, involves allegations of fraud and money laundering tied to the significant collapse of Bankman-Fried’s exchange last year, which could result in a life sentence if he is found guilty. Bankman-Fried, noticeably thinner and sporting a trimmed appearance, appeared in court after being transported from the Brooklyn detention center. Throughout the proceedings, he remained focused in front of a laptop, occasionally observing the members of the jury pool.

Before the jury selection process began, Bankman-Fried uttered a single word in response to the judge, affirming his understanding that he had the option to testify in his defense, even if advised otherwise by his legal team. Judge Lewis Kaplan, during the five-hour session, extensively probed potential jurors about their experiences with financial losses related to cryptocurrency investments and their preconceived notions of Bankman-Fried based on media coverage.

One juror, who disclosed significant personal losses linked to crypto investments resulting in financial ruin for a family member, was subsequently excused. Approximately 50 jurors will undergo further selection, with the final panel comprising 12 jurors and six alternates set to be determined the following day.

Bankman-Fried’s defense team requested the judge to explore the jurors’ understanding of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, a condition from which the defendant suffers. However, Judge Kaplan opted not to broach the subject with the jury pool. Both the prosecution and defense hold the ability to dismiss jurors through peremptory strikes as the selection process progresses.