1MDB convict and ex-Goldman banker Tim Leissner seeks pardon from Trump

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 2 min read 100% complete by BloombergJanuary 23, 2026 at 03:04 AM
1MDB convict and ex-Goldman banker Tim Leissner seeks pardon from Trump

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short article 2 min

Former Goldman Sachs banker Tim Leissner, convicted for his role in the 1MDB scandal involving the embezzlement of $4.5 billion, is seeking a presidential pardon from Donald Trump before reporting to prison. Leissner, who pleaded guilty in 2018 and cooperated with prosecutors, filed his pardon application with the Justice Department last year. He argues his cooperation, which led to a colleague's conviction and substantial fines for Goldman Sachs, warrants leniency. Leissner's request is among thousands being reviewed by the White House, including those from Bill Hwang and Elizabeth Holmes, as Trump has recently granted clemency to over 20 individuals, some convicted of white-collar crimes. Despite arguments for leniency, a federal judge sentenced Leissner to two years in prison, deeming his actions "brazen and audacious."

Keywords

presidential pardon 100% 1mdb scandal 90% tim leissner 80% goldman sachs 70% financial fraud 70% donald trump 60% white-collar crime 60% embezzlement 50% clemency 50% us justice department 40%

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South China Morning Post
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