Court Dialogue Reconstruction: Zhao Changpeng wants to return to the UAE, the judge determines that CZ is cooperative and poses no significant risk of fleeing.

Prior reports stated that CZ must remain in Seattle until the judge reviews the bail order by November 27, under the condition that the judge does not plan to conduct a retrial. CZ is required to return to the U.S. 14 days before the sentencing hearing on February 23 next year. BitMEX Research reconstructed the conversation between CZ and the judge, with the judge acknowledging CZ's proactive approach to the issue and finding no significant risk of flight.

Zhao Changpeng's $175 million bail awaits court approval, and the sentencing hearing is expected to take place in February next year.

Image source: Bloomberg

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CZ Zhao Changpeng Emphasizes: Will Return to the U.S. to Resolve Issues

Your Honor, I just want to say one thing. I want to resolve this issue, so I want to take responsibility and end this chapter in my life. I hold a very simple mindset, I have never caused trouble before, never been a criminal, never been to court. So all of this for me... to be honest, I was a little scared before coming here.

When you go to a country, you don't know what will happen, so at this court hearing, whether the judge explains all the details to me and so on, it left a very deep impression on me, but I did not intend to be here.

Regarding the UAE, I obtained citizenship of that country, but I do not want to use issues such as citizenship protection to pressure others. I want to resolve the issue myself, and I will return here to resolve this issue. Otherwise, I would not be here today.

Court: Zhao Changpeng's Actions Have Mitigated Flight Risks

The main issue here is where you reside. I think there is a high probability of bail and returning to the UAE, and I am inclined to support you staying in the UAE.

I think everyone appearing in court always has a risk of flight. Among the people I have released, none of them are without some risk of flight.

However, I believe your actions may have significantly mitigated the concerns of flight risks because you are not obligated to come to this country, but you did so. As you said, your intention is to resolve this case, not to flee.

Therefore, I think we will allow you to stay in the UAE, ensuring that you do not change your residence until you notify your lawyer. I believe this is a decision based on the specific circumstances, and the pre-trial office can correct me if there are concerns.

CZ will be allowed to live in the UAE while he awaits sentencing. It was a “very close call” as to whether he would be allowed to go back to the UAE. CZ had to speak himself to convince the court. CZ must return to the USA 14 days prior to his sentencing. The transcript extract…

— BitMEX Research (@BitMEXResearch) November 21, 2023