The US Government Pushes Back Against Former FTX Executive’s Attempt to Void Guilty Plea

The US government has recently responded to former FTX executive Ryan Salame’s attempt to void his guilty plea, which he believes was based on false promises made by prosecutors regarding the investigation of his partner, Michelle Bond. The US Attorney’s Office refuted Salame’s allegations, calling them “demonstrably false” and emphasizing that the charges against Bond are separate and ongoing. Salame was sentenced to 90 months in prison earlier this year for campaign finance violations and operating an unlicensed money-transmitting business.

Salame filed a petition on Aug. 21, seeking to dismiss Bond’s indictment or vacate his own conviction. He claimed that prosecutors implied during his plea negotiations that they would cease investigating Bond for her involvement in the same activities. However, the government’s response, outlined in a letter to Judges George B. Daniels and Lewis A. Kaplan, firmly opposed Salame’s petition. The indictment against Bond, unsealed on Aug. 22, includes additional charges and is distinct from Salame’s case.

Salame’s legal team has filed a writ of “error coram nobis,” alleging that his guilty plea was influenced by misrepresentations from the government. They argued that the government suggested Bond’s investigation would be dropped if Salame pleaded guilty. However, the government disputed this claim, stating that Salame’s guilty plea and the charges against Bond pertain to different aspects of the alleged criminal activities. If the court agrees with Salame’s petition, he may face a full criminal trial, altering the trajectory of his legal fight.

The legal battle comes at a critical juncture as Salame is set to report to prison on Oct. 13, following a brief delay due to medical issues. The government has made it clear that they will continue investigating Bond regardless of Salame’s plea. The court hearing for Salame’s petition is scheduled for Sept. 12 before Judge Kaplan, where both parties will present their arguments. The outcome could have significant implications for Salame’s conviction and Bond’s prosecution.

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