A White-Collar Criminal’s Unconventional LinkedIn Post Ahead of Prison Sentencing

Ryan Salame Brings a Betrayal of Disregard for His Prosecution and Sentence

Ryan Salame, the former co-CEO of FTX’s Bahamian subsidiary, FTX Digital Markets, is going behind bars, but not without leaving a lasting impression on LinkedIn. Salame’s recent update on the professional networking platform has raised eyebrows, as he presented his impending prison sentence as “a new opportunity” rather than a punishment.

A New Beginning: Inmate at FCI Cumberland

Salame’s LinkedIn post reads, “I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as Inmate at FCI Cumberland!” – a tone that is more suited to a career changer announcing their new role rather than a convicted criminal about to begin serving a 7.5-year prison sentence. He also added “cleaning and whittling” as a new skill, a surprising choice given the circumstances.

A Background of Fraud and Conspiracy Charges

Salame’s criminal journey began when he allegedly helped FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried steal more than $8 billion in customer money. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to make unlawful political contributions and defraud the Federal Election Commission, as well as conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmitting business. Salame’s case took a twist when he attempted to void his plea, claiming prosecutors failed to keep their promise to drop their criminal probe against his romantic partner, Michelle Bond.

A Web of Deceit: Michelle Bond and the FTX Connection

Michelle Bond, a former New York congressional candidate, is accused of using FTX funds to finance her election bid. She and her partner, Salame, allegedly orchestrated a sham consulting agreement, which paid her $400,000. This money was supposedly used to fund her campaign, and prosecutors claim they lied to Congress and others to cover up the illegal activities.

The Verdict

Salame was sentenced to 90 months in prison and ordered to pay more than $6 million in forfeiture and over $5 million in restitution. Despite his guilty plea, his LinkedIn post suggests he remains unwilling to accept responsibility for his actions.

Conclusion

Ryan Salame’s unconventional approach to his prison sentence has left many questioning his motivations. As he begins his 7.5-year stint at FCI Cumberland, it is uncertain whether he will continue to flaunt his new life as an inmate or reflect on the consequences of his actions.

FAQs

• What did Ryan Salame do? Ryan Salame, the former co-CEO of FTX’s Bahamian subsidiary, FTX Digital Markets, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to make unlawful political contributions and defraud the Federal Election Commission, and conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money transmitting business.
• What was his sentence? Salame was sentenced to 90 months in prison and ordered to pay more than $6 million in forfeiture and over $5 million in restitution.
• Why did he post on LinkedIn? Salame updated his LinkedIn profile to announce his new “position” as an inmate at FCI Cumberland, featuring “cleaning and whittling” as a new skill.
• What is the FTX scandal? FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried is accused of stealing more than $8 billion in customer money from the cryptocurrency exchange.
• What is the connection between Salame and Michelle Bond? Salame is accused of helping Bankman-Fried steal the money and of being connected to Michelle Bond, a former New York congressional candidate, through their romantic relationship.