CFTC Case Outcome: My Journey and Reflections

After more than eight years of legal proceedings with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), my case has finally concluded. I want to provide clarity on the outcome since public records can sometimes be incomplete or misleading. 

Dropped Charges: Of the four charges originally brought against me, two were dismissed. These dismissed charges confirmed that I did not solicit anyone, nor did I receive any economic benefit for what has been legally defined as a trading club. The other two charges were subject to collateral estoppel from a previous proceeding. 

Appellate Review: A higher criminal appellate court found that the legal proceedings in the earlier matter were fraught with procedural and evidentiary process errors. In fact, it determined that my original counsel, failed in almost every aspect of litigation. Upon appellate review, I was immediately released from incarceration due to these substantial procedural, legal process, and factual errors. 

Evidence Issues: In the civil matter, the court repeatedly denied motions to compel critical evidentiary information from a former attorney, which limited our ability to present the full picture. As noted by an appellate court-assigned attorney during a hearing on August 9, 2019, this was not a Ponzi-like scheme; in fact, it would be mathematically impossible. 

Settlement Pressure: At one point, I was pressured to waive my First Amendment rights as a condition of settlement. When I refused, the financial penalties were significantly increased. 

Decision to Stop Fighting: Ultimately, I chose not to continue litigation because the emotional and psychological toll outweighed the benefits of further legal proceedings. The very fact that this litigation has persisted for eight years reflects the struggle to present evidentiary facts rather than a misdirected narrative. 

This experience was challenging and originated from a traumatic family event, as established in the appellate review. While I wish I could take back some decisions, I view this as part of my past—something to learn from, not my future. I am proud that I stood on principle, and I am grateful to redirect my energy into constructive work. Today, my focus is on creating technology for accessibility and contributing positively to what has always been my life’s profession—technology. 

This site will evolve to assist those who lack the resources to advocate for themselves. I want to recognize the Hofstra University Pro Se Legal Assistance program, which is a tremendous resource. 

I share this statement so that those who want to understand my perspective can hear it directly from me.