In a surprising turn of events, it has been revealed that convicted crypto kingpin Sam Bankman-Fried, who is currently held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, has been using mackerel fish snacks as a preferred form of currency within the facility. Bankman-Fried, facing a potential sentence of over 100 years for fraud and money laundering related to the collapse of cryptocurrency exchange FTX, has been detained since August when his bail was revoked by a federal judge.

The Brooklyn detention center has faced prolonged criticism for its inhumane conditions, including staffing shortages, power outages, and reports of maggots in inmates' food. However, Bankman-Fried, a professed vegan, managed to make the best of his situation and surprised onlookers at his trial by ditching his unkempt hair-do for a neater look.

According to sources cited by the Journal, the 31-year-old crypto founder has been sharing cryptocurrency tips with jail guards while being provided with vegetarian meals. Bankman-Fried's spokesman, Mark Botnick, emphasized that he is doing his best under the circumstances.

Sharing a cell with the former president of Honduras and a Mexican law enforcement official suspected of aiding the Sinaloa drug cartel in smuggling 50 tons of cocaine into the United States, Bankman-Fried has been permitted a non-attorney visitor once a week and has access to a specialized laptop limited to legal material relevant to his case.

Bill Baroni, an attorney who previously served time for his involvement in the "Bridgegate" scandal, commented to The Journal that Bankman-Fried's life is expected to improve once he is sentenced. Presently, Bankman-Fried's movement is restricted, and his meals are delivered directly to his cell, denying him the opportunity to eat in a communal setting with other inmates.

Baroni anticipates that "when he is sentenced, his life will get better" as Bankman-Fried will no longer be confined with individuals involved in violent crimes. The exact date of the sentencing is set for March, and until then, Bankman-Fried continues to navigate the unique challenges of his detention, relying on unconventional currency and making the best of his restricted circumstances.

As the crypto community closely follows the fate of this prominent figure, the Brooklyn detention center's flaws and their impact on detainees remain under scrutiny, prompting calls for improved conditions within the facility.