Crypto Tycoon turned Vegan: FTX Founder Survives on Bread and Water in Jail

FTX Founder Sam Bankman-Fried's Unconventional Jail Survival Story

In an unexpected turn of events, Sam Bankman-Fried (31), the founder of cryptocurrency exchange FTX, who is currently imprisoned on charges related to crypto fraud, has reportedly resorted to sustaining himself solely on a diet of bread and water while behind bars.

Bankman-Fried's lawyer revealed the extraordinary situation in a Manhattan federal court, highlighting that the correctional facility's lack of vegan options has compelled the entrepreneur to endure on a diet of "literally just bread and water" for sustenance. Furthermore, it was mentioned that he has been denied access to his Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) medication, Adderall (amphetamine), and his antidepressant medication is depleting, hampering his trial preparations.

Judge Sarah Netburn, presiding over the case, expressed her intention to request authorities to address Bankman-Fried's medication concerns.

Judge Netburn, while acknowledging that a vegetarian diet is being provided within the correctional facility, admitted uncertainty about the feasibility of a fully vegan diet. Bankman-Fried's strict dietary preferences might be challenging to accommodate, possibly leaving him with only bread as a viable vegan option.

Correctional authorities released a separate statement asserting that inmates receive appropriate healthcare, medication, and warm meals.

Bankman-Fried, once hailed as the "Crypto King," saw a drastic downfall after leading a lavish life and facing the collapse of FTX. FTX, the world's second-largest cryptocurrency exchange valued at around $32 billion, met its demise. U.S. prosecutors allege that Bankman-Fried misappropriated billions of dollars of customer funds to repay debts of affiliated company Alameda Research and acquire real estate.

Initially charged with fraud, money laundering, and illegal campaign contributions, Bankman-Fried's legal ordeal involved additional accusations and withdrawals, ultimately resulting in seven charges. While acknowledging shortcomings in FTX's risk management, he steadfastly denied any fraudulent activities. During this recent development, he again maintained his innocence against all charges.

Bankman-Fried was extradited from the Bahamas to the U.S. in December last year, released on bail, and subsequently re-arrested on the 11th of this month after prosecutors discovered evidence of witness tampering. His official trial is set to commence in October.