A former New York cop and alleged pedophile, Carmine Simpson, has penned a letter to US district judge Lewis Kaplan, advocating for a lenient sentence for Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF), the disgraced former FTX chief.
Simpson, currently incarcerated alongside Bankman-Fried, describes him as the “least physically intimidating person” and asserts that the world would benefit from his release.
Key Points
- Sam Bankman-Fried’s character: Described as the “most selfless person” by Carmine Simpson, who claims to have known him for the past six months.
- Vegan diet commitment: Simpson cites Bankman-Fried’s commitment to a vegan diet in prison, emphasizing the example of his character. The diet reportedly consists of “undercooked rice, a scoop of disgusting-looking beans, and week-old brown lettuce.”
- Target of harassment: Bankman-Fried is reported to have faced hazing, harassment, and assault beyond the average inmate’s experience.
- Extortion concerns: The former FTX chief’s estimated fortune has made him a target for extortion, and he is reportedly worried about false rumors being spread by ‘jailhouse snitches’ to the government and press.
- Prison friendships: Despite the challenges, Bankman-Fried has apparently made friends in prison, including a group photo with rapper and former gang member G Lock, who vouched for his authenticity.
Context and Controversy
- Criminal charges against Simpson: Carmine Simpson, who advocates for Bankman-Fried’s leniency, was arrested and charged in 2021 for posing as a 17-year-old on social media to exploit minors.
- SBF’s prison experience: Bankman-Fried, who is due to be sentenced on March 28, has reportedly faced a challenging environment in prison, including harassment and assault.
- G Lock’s endorsement: Rapper and former gang member G Lock described Bankman-Fried as “more gangster than Tekashi 69” and asserted that he “didn’t snitch on nobody.”
The plea for leniency, the portrayal of Bankman-Fried’s character, and the dynamics within the prison environment present a complex picture as the disgraced former FTX chief awaits sentencing on March 28.
The letter adds a unique perspective to the ongoing narrative surrounding the legal proceedings and challenges faced by Sam Bankman-Fried in the criminal justice system.