ADHD Medication Requirement Delays Sam Bankman-Fried's Testimony at Trial, Defense Claims

The defense team is approaching a pivotal moment in the trial.

In a recent submission, the defense representing Sam Bankman-Fried has indicated the possibility of his testimony in the criminal trial. However, the ongoing struggle to obtain the appropriate ADHD medication is adding complexity to their decision-making process.

In a letter directed to Judge Lewis Kaplan, defense counsel Mark Cohen voiced concerns regarding his client's ability to maintain focus during the trial due to inadequate doses of Adderall provided by the Bureau of Prisons (BOP).

"While Mr. Bankman-Fried has been striving to stay attentive throughout the trial, we are growing increasingly worried as we near the defense's phase. The limited access to sufficient Adderall may impede his concentration, potentially impacting his meaningful involvement in the defense proceedings", Cohen emphasized.

Prosecutors anticipate wrapping up their case by midday on October 26, signaling the shift to the defense's presentation—provided they choose to present one. Although indications suggest they will, the decision on Bankman-Fried's testimony remains uncertain.

Bankman-Fried's ongoing struggle to acquire his prescribed medication while in federal custody sheds light on the hurdles defendants face within the intricacies of the justice system. His legal team has been tirelessly working to ensure the former FTX CEO receives the full prescribed doses of Adderall since his remandment in August. While initial efforts yielded success, securing the medication has become progressively more challenging during the trial, with the BOP neglecting their repeated calls and emails.

Currently, the defendant receives a morning dose of Adderall, which wears off by the time the jury convenes in the courtroom. He does not receive another dose until returning to the Brooklyn lockup in the evening, despite being prescribed three to four doses a day.

Cohen outlined that Bankman-Fried is slated to receive an extended-release dose from the BOP each morning. However, he cautioned that its effectiveness remains uncertain, and there is no assurance that the BOP will administer it. If this approach proves ineffective, Cohen proposed a one-day adjournment to address the issue and sought permission to personally oversee Bankman-Fried's medication as an alternative solution.

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