# 4

By [aundingoya.eth](https://paragraph.com/@aundingoya.eth) · 2024-06-04

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Binance founder Changpeng Zhao has started his four-month prison term in Lompoc, California, for money-laundering violations, reported by CNBC. Despite prosecutors seeking a three-year sentence, Zhao's apology letter to Judge Richard Jones led to a lighter verdict. The low-security prison mandates work for its 1,300 inmates, offering dorm-style housing and a farm. Zhao's journey from humble beginnings in Canada to co-founding the world's top crypto exchange is noteworthy. After striking a deal with prosecutors last November, Zhao stepped down as CEO, pleaded guilty, and paid a hefty fine, along with Binance.

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*Originally published on [aundingoya.eth](https://paragraph.com/@aundingoya.eth/4)*