In a decision that generated great public backlash, a federal judge in New York granted a multimillion-dollar bail to tech entrepreneur Alan Whitmore, accused of financial fraud and data manipulation in the crypto sector. The bail was set at 15 million dollars, with strict conditions such as house arrest, electronic monitoring, and surrender of passports. Whitmore, founder of the investment platform CriptoTrust, faces charges of defrauding thousands of investors through false performance reports and misappropriation of funds exceeding 120 million dollars.
The Department of Justice argued that there was a flight risk, but the defense contended that Whitmore wishes to cooperate with the investigation and does not pose a threat. The judge agreed to release the defendant while he awaits trial, which will begin in September. This measure has generated various reactions, especially among the victims, who expressed their frustration at the possibility of the entrepreneur remaining free while the case is clarified.
The situation has once again focused attention on the regulation of crypto platforms and the need for greater financial oversight to protect investors in this constantly expanding sector.