BRADFORD, Pa. — Preparations are intensifying for the upcoming trial of brothers Shane and Sean Hvizdzak, who are facing serious federal charges related to an extensive cryptocurrency fraud scheme. The brothers, aged 37 and 39 respectively, are implicated in a 65-count indictment encompassing conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering. Prosecutors allege the pair masterminded a scheme that misrepresented return rates to swindle approximately $31 million from investors.
As the trial approaches, discussions have centered on various motions aimed at excluding certain evidence from the jury’s consideration. Shane Hvizdzak’s legal team has filed a motion asking U.S. District Judge W. Scott Hardy to bar any testimony concerning the negative consequences of the alleged crimes on investors, such as their personal and financial hardships. Defense attorneys argue that such evidence could unduly sway the jury against Hvizdzak and is not pertinent to the case.
Sean Hvizdzak, whose law license is under temporary suspension, has also presented a comprehensive motion covering numerous points he believes should not be disclosed to the jury. This includes requests to exclude information on his suspension and to prevent the jury from interpreting his acceptance of an asset freeze as an admission of guilt. He highlights the importance of maintaining a fair trial, asserting that issues concerning his financial status post-indictment and other specific matters should not influence deliberations.
The prosecution, led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Trabold, has responded with its own set of motions, detailing how they intend to present their case. They emphasize that any potential testimony regarding the brothers’ emotional or financial repercussions stemming from the investigation should also be excluded, as it is not deemed relevant. Further, Trabold contends that evidence suggesting the Hvizdzaks did not personally benefit from the alleged fraudulent scheme should not be considered.
Additionally, the prosecution seeks to use hypothetical scenarios in questions to the jury, such as whether victims would still have invested had they known the purported high returns were fabricated. To support their case, they’ve requested the use of visual exhibits that illustrate the flow of investor funds, which the prosecution believes will clarify the evidence for the jury.
As both sides prepare for the trial, which is expected to unfold intensely, responses to the motions filed are due shortly, setting the stage for a highly scrutinized legal battle.
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