The legal battle between the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Ripple has taken a dramatic turn, raising serious concerns about potential bias within the SEC. Recent developments have added fuel to this uncertainty, with the SEC’s decision to dismiss its case against Coinbase adding to speculation about whether a similar strategy is in play regarding Ripple. Adding further intrigue is an Office of Inspector General (OIG) investigation that has brought potential conflicts of interest within the SEC to light. Reports indicate former SEC Chair Gary Gensler withheld findings before stepping down, and acting chair Mark Uyeda and commissioner Hester Peirce remain silent on this sensitive matter. If confirmed, this misconduct could significantly impact the SEC’s strategy for both Ripple and other cryptocurrency cases. The investigation began due to concerns over potential conflicts of interest by the SEC, with a particular focus on former SEC Director Bill Hinman and his affiliations. 2018’s Hinman speech, where he declared Bitcoin and Ethereum non-securities, has become a significant moment in crypto history. However, his ties to law firm Simpson Thacher, who was actively promoting Ethereum at the time, have raised questions about potential bias. Hinman reportedly continued interacting with Simpson Thacher despite warnings from the agency’s Ethics Division, and even received millions of dollars from the firm while serving at the SEC. After leaving, he rejoined Simpson Thacher, deepening concerns over the potential for conflicts of interest. This revelation could drastically impact the SEC’s credibility, particularly if the OIG report confirms unethical conduct. This would undermine the legitimacy of the SEC’s enforcement actions against Ripple and other crypto firms. The SEC’s failure to provide transparency has prompted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request by non-profit watchdog group Empower Oversight, but the SEC refuses to release the findings. Meanwhile, XRP prices have been significantly affected as market uncertainty grows due to the ongoing legal battle with the SEC. The potential impact of these developments on Ripple and XRP’s price trajectory remains uncertain, while legal teams prepare for more unpredictable twists in this unfolding saga.