(Sentencing Judge Lewis) Kaplan also rejected Bankman-Fried’s claim that he deserves a lighter sentence because many of his victims may be made whole on their lost investments.
"If a thief steals money, takes it to Las Vegas, and earns a handsome profit by gambling, he is still a thief, even if the funds are repaid." [1]
"If a thief steals money, takes it to Las Vegas, and earns a handsome profit by gambling, he is still a thief, even if the funds are repaid." [1]
[1] https://www.thedailybeast.com/ftx-crypto-fraudster-sam-bankm...
SBF's crime wasn't losing money, had he gotten authorization to make these investments from his depositors, he wouldn't have been in this position.