Former FTX Digital Markets co-CEO Ryan Salame has had his prison sentence reduced by one year, with his release now set for March 2031, according to U.S. Bureau of Prison records. Salame was sentenced to 7.5 years in May 2023 after pleading guilty to conspiracy to operate an unlicensed money-transmitting business and campaign finance violations. Originally slated for release in April 2032, his sentence adjustment has raised questions as no official reason has been provided.

Salame’s legal team previously argued for a shorter sentence, citing significant asset forfeitures and claiming he was unaware of the core FTX fraud. “Ryan, who was not part of Sam Bankman-Fried’s innermost circle, was unaware of the crimes at the center of this case,” they stated in a May 14 memorandum. Despite these arguments, Judge Lewis A. Kaplan imposed a 90-month sentence due to the severe monetary losses caused by FTX’s collapse.

Federal prosecutors had sought a five-to-seven-year term but later faced criticism for allegedly reneging on plea deal terms. Salame claimed his guilty plea was influenced by assurances that prosecutors would cease investigating his partner, Michelle Bond, for campaign finance violations. However, authorities resumed their probe, leading Salame to unsuccessfully petition to void his plea.

Following these legal battles, Salame entered custody at FCI Cumberland, a medium-security prison, on October 11. His reduced sentence has sparked speculation, with no comment from the facility regarding the adjustment.

The case continues to draw attention as the fallout from FTX’s collapse unfolds, leaving questions about the justice system’s handling of high-profile financial crimes.