Different from the United States Department of Justice’s recommendation of a 36-month prison term, Judge Richard Jones seems to be considering a shorter sentence of 10 to 16 months for Changpeng ‘CZ’ Zhao, who is accused of violating the Bank Secrecy Act.

In the court proceedings, Judge Jones expressed doubts about the DOJ's push for a longer sentence and seems more inclined towards a milder punishment as suggested by the Probation Office.

Despite pleading guilty to breaking the Bank Secrecy Act and stepping down from Binance, Zhao has received extensive support from his acquaintances and the crypto community.

The outcome of Zhao's sentencing could have far-reaching consequences, especially for Binance, the cryptocurrency exchange he helped create. The conviction might impact the French operations, which he solely owns, and the company's goal of obtaining a European License under MiCA rules by 2025 could face challenges.