Former Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes to be sentenced on Sept. 26

Amanda Kramer spoke with NPR regarding Elizabeth Holmes' recent conviction on fraud charges in connection with the collapse of her former blood testing diagnostic company, Theranos. U.S. District Judge Edward Davila set Holmes' sentencing date for September 26. Amanda explained there is some logic behind waiting so long. "It's not typical for a case to be sentenced eight months out, but this is not a typical case in many senses," she said. "And some facts established in Balwani's trial might prove to be relevant in Holmes' sentencing."

The maximum possible penalty Holmes could be sentenced to is 20 years in federal prison, given the magnitude of the fraud. Amanda said, "I would be utterly shocked if she wasn't sentenced to some term of imprisonment."

Amanda added that the judge will consider the investors' loss amount, her character and background, her efforts at rehabilitating and how the punishment could deter others from engaging in similar fraud. "What is the sentence that will deter others who have a failing business from making the choice to commit fraud, rather than owning up to the failings and losing their dream?" she said.