By Guest 
In a surprising turn of events, former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried (SBF) is reportedly seeking a presidential pardon from Donald Trump, according to a Bloomberg report. SBF was sentenced to 25 years in prison in 2024 for his role in the collapse of the cryptocurrency exchange.
CryptoSlate has revealed that SBF’s parents, Joseph Bankman and Barbara Fried, both Stanford Law School professors, have been exploring potential avenues to secure a pardon for their 32-year-old son. In recent weeks, they have engaged in discussions with legal representatives and individuals within Trump’s inner circle. However, it remains unclear whether they have made direct contact with the White House.
Former FTX CEO Seeks Presidential Pardon from Donald Trump
The efforts of Bankman and Fried appear to have been spurred by Trump’s recent pardon of Rod Blagojevich. Jeffrey Grant, a legal advisor for high-profile criminals, stated that he has received nearly 100 pardon-related requests, indicating a surge in such appeals.
Grant commented, “We have been inundated with requests from inmates, individuals who have just been convicted and have not yet reported to prison, and even those who have recently been charged. They are looking for someone who can facilitate the necessary connections.”
Despite the efforts of SBF’s parents, it is evident that their son does not enjoy the same level of support as Blagojevich did. SBF has argued that his 25-year sentence is excessively harsh, especially considering that many FTX customers have recovered a significant portion of their lost funds. Additionally, Ryan Salame, another former FTX executive who was sentenced to seven years in prison, has also expressed interest in seeking a presidential pardon from Trump.
Legal and Political Implications
The move by SBF and Salame to seek pardons highlights the complex interplay between the judicial system and political power. Presidential pardons have historically been a contentious issue, often raising questions about the fairness of the justice system and the potential for abuse of executive power.
Legal experts suggest that while a pardon is within the president’s authority, the likelihood of SBF receiving one may be slim given the severity of his crimes and the public’s perception of his actions. Furthermore, the political landscape and Trump’s own considerations will play a significant role in any decision.
In conclusion, the efforts of SBF and Salame to secure pardons reflect the ongoing debate over the use of presidential pardons and their impact on the justice system. As the situation unfolds, it will be interesting to see how Trump and his advisors navigate these requests, balancing legal precedent with political expediency.