Concerns Over Vegan Diet in Prison: Sam Bankman-Fried’s Struggles

Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder of FTX, is facing challenges maintaining his vegan diet while in jail, according to a letter from Carmine Simpson, a former NYPD officer incarcerated alongside Bankman-Fried. Simpson expressed concerns about the quality of food Bankman-Fried receives and pleaded for leniency on his behalf in a letter to US District Judge Lewis Kaplan, who is set to sentence Bankman-Fried on March 28.

Vegan Diet Struggles

In his letter, Simpson described Bankman-Fried’s commitment to veganism despite facing limitations in prison. He highlighted the poor quality of meals, noting that Bankman-Fried often receives undercooked rice, unappetizing beans, and wilted lettuce. Despite these challenges, Bankman-Fried remains steadfast in his dedication to not participating in the maltreatment of animals, according to Simpson.

Simpson initially doubted Bankman-Fried’s altruistic motivations but later changed his opinion after getting to know him better. He praised Bankman-Fried as one of the most selfless individuals he has ever met and emphasized the positive impact Bankman-Fried could have if released from jail.

Legal Challenges and Sentencing

However, Simpson’s letter may face skepticism due to his own legal troubles. Simpson is facing criminal charges related to the production of child pornography, adding complexity to his plea for leniency on behalf of Bankman-Fried.

Bankman-Fried’s attorney, Marc Mukasey, argued against an excessively harsh sentence for his client, describing such a verdict as “grotesque” and “barbaric.” Bankman-Fried’s legal team is seeking a 6.5-year sentence, contrasting starkly with the possibility of a 100-year prison term.

Family’s Plea and Public Reaction

Bankman-Fried’s parents, Joseph Bankman and Barbara Fried, also wrote letters to Judge Kaplan, expressing their anguish over their son’s incarceration and pleading for a lighter sentence.

Meanwhile, crypto influencer Tiffany Fong shared what she claimed to be the first photo of Bankman-Fried in prison, depicting him with a disheveled appearance. Fong noted that Bankman-Fried appeared to have lost weight and was not maintaining his usual grooming habits.

Representatives for Bankman-Fried declined to comment on the situation when contacted by Business Insider.

Despite the challenges Bankman-Fried faces in prison, his supporters continue to advocate for a fair and reasonable outcome as his sentencing date approaches.