Former FTX executive Ryan Salame has withdrawn his claims that the US government broke its word about not prosecuting his partner, Michelle Bond. However, a judge has scheduled a hearing anyway to investigate the situation.
The Backstory:
- Salame, the former co-CEO of FTX Digital Markets, pleaded guilty last year to charges related to illegal campaign contributions and operating an unlicensed money-transmitting business.
- He was sentenced to 7.5 years in prison and is set to report in October.
- Salame initially claimed he struck a deal with the government to avoid further investigation into Bond, a former Congressional candidate and the mother of his child.
- However, the government later charged Bond with campaign finance violations related to her unsuccessful 2022 run for Congress.
- Salame’s lawyers argued the government used his negotiations to pressure Bond and force him into pleading guilty.
The Twist:
- Salame withdrew his petition asking the court to dismiss Bond’s indictment and his own conviction.
- He claims he’s doing this to allow Bond to raise the issue in her own case.
- However, Salame insists he still stands by his accusations against the government.
The Judge’s Decision:
- Despite Salame’s withdrawal, the judge has scheduled a hearing on September 12th to discuss the matter.
- Salame will be required to attend the hearing.
This situation highlights the ongoing legal battle surrounding the collapse of FTX and the potential for further revelations about the government’s involvement.
