Sentencing Request for Nishad Singh

Attorneys for Nishad Singh, a former director of engineering at FTX, have requested that the court not impose jail time, citing that his circumstances are "extraordinary in every way that matters to sentencing."

In a filing on Wednesday, Singh’s lawyers highlighted that he is "situated differently" from other former FTX executives, describing him as an "uncommonly selfless individual." They submitted over 100 letters from friends, former colleagues, and family members in support of Singh.

Singh’s lawyers argued that his role was much more limited than that of other defendants, emphasizing that he does not minimize his actions, having pled guilty to serious crimes early in the case.

In February 2023, Singh pleaded guilty to six criminal charges, including fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering, and later testified against Sam Bankman-Fried in October 2023.

In a letter to the judge, Singh expressed his deep remorse, stating, "I feel overwhelmed… when I try to think about the enormity of the harm I have caused." He acknowledged being manipulated by Bankman-Fried’s narratives, admitting to rationalizing wrong decisions.

Singh's attorneys contended that he did not join the conspiracy until September 2022, shortly before FTX's collapse, and claimed that he played a predominantly passive role. They asserted that he cooperated with investigations, distancing himself from misleading public statements as customers sought withdrawals.

Alameda Research, closely tied to FTX and both founded by Bankman-Fried, managed liquidity for trading. Concerns about conflicts of interest arose from FTX lending to Alameda, highlighting mishandling of user funds.

In March 2024, Bankman-Fried was convicted of seven counts of fraud and conspiracy, receiving a 25-year sentence. Ellison was sentenced to two years for her part in FTX’s downfall, which resulted in billion-dollar losses for users.

Singh’s lawyers noted a distinction in conduct between Ellison and Bankman-Fried; they argued that while the court recognized her extensive cooperation, a prison term was necessary to communicate the severity of her actions, which they claim doesn't apply to Singh due to his lesser involvement.

Singh’s sentencing is scheduled for October 30.