Sam Bankman-Fried, the former head of the FTX exchange, is awaiting a ruling in the Brooklyn prison (MDC). Prominent ex-con Gene Borello has revealed aspects of SBF's time in prison, claiming he faced extortion attempts and expressed concern for his safety.
Former inmate of the MDC prison in Brooklyn, Gene Borello, told crypto blogger Tiffany Fong about his acquaintance with the ex-CEO of the FTX crypto exchange, Sam Bankman-Fried. He stated that SBF was worried about its safety and had even considered hiring a bodyguard.
Borello said Bankman-Fried was "targeted by other inmates due to his timid nature." One of them extorted money from SBF and insisted that he needed protection in prison, while Borello convinced Bankman-Fried otherwise:
“I kept repeating that it’s not dangerous here. You don't need protection. Do not worry about it. You don’t have to pay anyone anything,” he said.
Borello explained that Bankman-Fried is in a cell with "government officials and wealthy individuals" and not in the general prison area. Therefore, he does not need to look for a bodyguard.
Interlocutor Tiffany Fong recalled a conversation with SBF while being held in a cell:
“When talking, he always lowered his head. He is very timid and speaks very nervously. I asked what he did with the money and what kind of car he drove. He replied that he uses an Apple Watch and owns a 2020 Toyota Camry.”
Borello suggested that cases of extortion of money from Bankman-Fried could be repeated. In addition, SBF was worried that he might spend 20 years in prison.
Note that some lawyers believe that the former CEO of FTX will receive from 10 to 20 years in prison.
We previously reported on Bankman-Fried's conditions at the MDC prison in Brooklyn. The ex-head of the FTX exchange found himself in the same cell with the former president of Honduras and had access to vegetarian food and a laptop. In addition, he has access to necessary medications and can receive visitors once a week.
Let us remind you that on November 2, the jury returned a verdict in the case of the ex-CEO of FTX. The court found Sam Bankman-Fried guilty on all seven counts. The next meeting is scheduled for March 11, 2024. Previously, SBF stated that it did not deceive exchange clients.
