Gary Wang, co-founder and former chief technology officer of FTX, has been sentenced to time served for his role in the cryptocurrency exchange’s collapse. The sentencing, delivered on Nov. 20, follows Wang’s extensive cooperation with federal prosecutors during their investigation into one of the largest fraud cases in crypto history. He also received a $200 fine and will face supervised release for an unspecified period.
Wang, who pleaded guilty to multiple charges of fraud in December 2022, admitted to knowingly misusing customer funds alongside FTX’s founder, Sam Bankman-Fried. Prosecutors credited Wang for providing crucial evidence that supported their case against Bankman-Fried, who was convicted earlier this month on seven counts of fraud and conspiracy. Wang’s cooperation was described as pivotal in unraveling the complexities of the FTX scandal.
Despite his cooperation, Wang expressed remorse for his actions during the sentencing hearing, acknowledging the harm caused to FTX’s customers and investors. The court took his remorse and assistance into account, resulting in the relatively lenient sentence. Legal experts noted that Wang’s collaboration likely spared him a much harsher punishment, which could have included several years in prison.
The fallout from FTX’s collapse continues to ripple through the cryptocurrency industry, with investigations and lawsuits targeting other executives and entities involved in the exchange. Wang’s sentencing marks a significant milestone in the legal proceedings, shedding light on the inner workings of the fraudulent scheme. As regulators and lawmakers push for stricter oversight, the case serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with poorly governed crypto platforms.
