Sac portfolio manager Michael Steinberg is worried that widespread press coverage of his insider trading case could cost him a fair trial.
Steinberg’s lawyer Barry Berke filed a letter on Monday with Manhattan federal judge Richard Sullivan to complain about the “intense media storm” surrounding his client’s case.
Steinberg, who worked for SAC’s Sigma Capital unit, faces trial on Nov. 18 for allegedly trading on illegal stock tips provided by his former analyst, Jon Horvath, who has pleaded guilty and is cooperating with the feds.
“In particular, we are concerned about the media’s routine association of Mr. Steinberg with others suspected, accused or convicted of insider trading, which could cause a reader to presume his guilt,” Berke said.
In particular, the lawyer balked at stories linking Steinberg to his former boss, Steve Cohen, who has also been under intense government scrutiny — including potential criminal charges against his $15 billion firm.
“There can be no question that the coverage has directly linked Mr. Steinberg to both Mr. Cohen and the salacious allegations regarding SAC,” Berke told the judge.
The Post was cited as having published, along with the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal, a whopping 181 stories about Steinberg or SAC since September.
Berke asked that potential jurors fill out a questionnaire to screen bias, and then submit to follow-up questioning by lawyers “as needed.”
Berke said potential jurors are more candid when responding privately.