Alex Mashinsky, former CEO of Celsius Network, is facing a potential sentence of up to 366 days in prison. This plea bargain contrasts sharply with the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) request for a 20-year sentence on charges related to defrauding customers during the company’s bankruptcy in 2022. Mashinsky admitted guilt on two counts—commodities fraud and manipulation of the CEL token price, resulting in $48 million in personal profit before Celsius collapsed. While prosecutors argue that Mashinsky’s actions were intentional and calculated, his legal team claims he is a nonviolent first-time offender without any history of criminal activity. They contend the DOJ’s narrative portrays Mashinsky as solely responsible for Celsius’ downfall, while ignoring other factors contributing to the company’s demise.