Bankman-Fried Seeks New Trial Citing New Evidence

Sam Bankman-Fried has requested a new trial following his conviction for fraud related to the collapse of FTX. His mother, Barbara Fried, filed the motion in a New York federal court, arguing that new evidence justified another trial. The 35-page filing, submitted in February, was made as a pro se request, meaning Bankman-Fried represented himself. He is currently serving a 25-year prison sentence.

The motion cited the absence of testimony from figures like former FTX executive Ryan Salame, who had a separate legal battle and was also convicted. Salame claimed that a cooperation agreement with prosecutors should have protected his wife from legal action. These developments were part of Bankman-Fried’s argument for a retrial, though legal experts note he would need compelling new evidence to succeed.

Earlier appeals focused on Bankman-Fried’s claim that his initial trial was unfair. Judges, however, were skeptical, particularly about his argument that FTX was solvent when it collapsed. Circuit Judge Maria Araújo Kahn emphasized that the case centered on misrepresentations to investors, not solvency. President Donald Trump also stated he would not consider clemency for Bankman-Fried, closing another potential path to freedom.

Bankman-Fried continues to campaign through his X account, arguing he is a victim of political targeting. Related coverage examines other federal fraud cases and crypto-related stock markets. The February filing rests on his claim that new evidence warrants another trial.