SBF's lawyer opposes the addition of bail conditions: he wants to assist in the bankruptcy process rather than obstruct it.

FTX's reorganized team recently accused SBF of attempting to influence witnesses and subornation of perjury, requesting prosecutors to further restrict SBF's bail conditions, prohibiting contact or communication with current or former employees of FTX or Alameda, and banning the use of encrypted communication software like Signal. SBF's legal team promptly filed a defense against these allegations.

SBF Wants to Help, Not Obstruct

In a legal document dated 1/28, SBF's representative lawyer, Mark Cohen, pointed out that FTX's portrayal of SBF is very negative.

SBF has reached out to witness number one, FTX US General Counsel Ryne Miller, and previously attempted to contact current CEO John Ray multiple times. A more reasonable interpretation is that SBF is trying to offer assistance.

It is also considered reasonable for SBF to use encrypted communication software like Signal without enabling features such as automatic message deletion. FTX's restructuring team is trying to shift the focus to the use of automatic message deletion on these communication platforms before the bankruptcy of FTX and Alameda, but this is irrelevant to whether SBF should face increased bail conditions.

Ban on Contact Will Impact SBF's Defense in Lawsuit

Mark Cohen pointed out that all current and former employees of FTX and Alameda may have crucial information regarding SBF's lawsuit. SBF is required to have legal representation present when contacting these individuals, which undoubtedly adds unnecessary pressure on SBF and further damages SBF's defense capabilities in this case.

Furthermore, many of these individuals are friends of SBF, and a blanket ban on contact would result in SBF losing personal support from friends and family.

Agreement to Negotiate, Modify Bail Conditions

Mark Cohen stated that they are still willing to modify bail conditions to address concerns from relevant parties and avoid further litigation. However, regarding the scope and restrictions of SBF's contact with potential witnesses, they will meet with the government in the following week to negotiate and provide a detailed written proposal for bail condition recommendations.

Mark Cohen suggested that, given FTX has hundreds of current and former employees, a witness list should be drafted, and SBF's contact with them should be restricted or require conversations to be conducted in the presence of a lawyer. However, SBF should be able to freely contact other employees without restrictions.