Story perspectives

Former Goldman Banker Seeks Trump Pardon Before Prison

1/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Tim Leissner, former Goldman Sachs banker involved in 1MDB, seeks a pardon from U.S. President Donald Trump as he enters federal prison next month.
He filed the pardon application last year after pleading guilty to embezzling $4.5 billion from Malaysia's sovereign wealth fund.
Leissner cooperated with prosecutors by testifying against Roger Ng, who received a 10-year sentence.
1MDB fraud led to penalties for Goldman Sachs and toppled the Malaysian government.

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Story summary

Tim Leissner, former Goldman Sachs banker involved in 1MDB, seeks a pardon from U.S. President Donald Trump as he enters federal prison next month.
He filed the pardon application last year after pleading guilty to embezzling $4.5 billion from Malaysia's sovereign wealth fund.
Leissner cooperated with prosecutors by testifying against Roger Ng, who received a 10-year sentence.
1MDB fraud led to penalties for Goldman Sachs and toppled the Malaysian government.