The parents of Sam Bankman-Fried, the former FTX CEO sentenced to 25 years in prison for fraud, are actively pursuing a pardon from Donald Trump.
Joseph Bankman and Barbara Fried, both professors at Stanford Law School, have recently engaged with legal experts and individuals within Trump’s inner circle, as reported by various sources.
Details on whether a direct appeal has been made to Trump or his campaign remain uncertain. Neither of Bankman-Fried’s parents has commented, and there has been no response from his legal representatives.
Trump’s history of utilizing his pardon power, including granting clemency to Silk Road founder Ross Ulbricht, has sparked interest among white-collar defendants seeking similar relief.
Following the news, the likelihood of a pardon for Bankman-Fried has reportedly risen to 8% according to market indicators.
Clemency Requests for SBF
Clemency applications typically undergo the Justice Department’s review process, although Trump has previously entertained informal proposals. Legal experts note a notable increase in inquiries from individuals leveraging political connections for leniency.
In addition to Bankman-Fried, Ryan Salame, a former FTX executive serving a seven-year sentence, has also expressed interest in pursuing a pardon, as mentioned in reports.
While Trump initially dismissed cryptocurrency, he has now shown support for the industry, appealing to advocates who seek regulatory changes.
Moreover, Trump has demonstrated a willingness to aid those who claim to be victims of political persecution, including figures such as New York Mayor Eric Adams, who has described his bribery case as politically charged.
