Sam Bankman-Fried’s legal team is challenging the lengthy prison sentence proposed by prosecutors, describing their portrayal of him as a “depraved super-villain” as unjust.

Accusations of Unfair Characterization

In a letter to US District Judge Lewis Kaplan, Bankman-Fried’s lawyers criticized prosecutors for their portrayal of him, accusing them of advocating for an excessively harsh punishment akin to a “death-in-prison” sentence.

Denial of Allegations

Bankman-Fried’s representatives declined to offer additional comments on the matter, indicating their disapproval of the prosecutors’ stance.

Prosecutors’ Sentencing Memorandum

Prosecutors have recommended a prison term of 40 to 50 years for Bankman-Fried, citing the severity and long-term impact of his crimes, which they claim caused significant financial and emotional harm to numerous victims.

Previous Pleas for Leniency

This isn’t the first time Bankman-Fried’s legal team has sought a more lenient sentence. Previously, they opposed a probation officer’s recommendation of a 100-year prison term, arguing that such a sentence grossly exaggerated the severity of Bankman-Fried’s offenses.

Counterarguments for a Lighter Sentence

Bankman-Fried’s attorney, Marc Mukasey, proposed a five to six-and-a-half-year prison term, contending that a century-long sentence would overstate the seriousness of his client’s actions. Mukasey highlighted the efforts to compensate FTX’s victims fully and addressed concerns about Bankman-Fried’s social vulnerability in prison.

Family’s Plea for Understanding

Bankman-Fried’s parents have also advocated for a more compassionate sentencing, expressing concerns about their son’s safety in jail due to his social challenges.

Conclusion and Sentencing

Bankman-Fried was convicted of seven counts of fraud and conspiracy in November and faces a potential prison term of up to 110 years. His sentencing is scheduled for March 28, with ongoing efforts from his legal team and family to mitigate the severity of the proposed punishment.