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Lobbyist Arrested for Extortion Amid Trump Pardon Controversy

3/15/2026

30 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Joshua Nass, New York lobbyist, was arrested for allegedly extorting a former client over a $500,000 debt and threatening client and his son.
Prosecutors say he directed an accomplice to intimidate them and offered $15,000.
He is linked to a November 2025 pardon by U.S. President Donald Trump for Joseph Schwartz.
If convicted, Nass could face up to 20 years in prison, and White House denies lobbyist influence in clemency.

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Story summary

Joshua Nass, New York lobbyist, was arrested for allegedly extorting a former client over a $500,000 debt and threatening client and his son.
Prosecutors say he directed an accomplice to intimidate them and offered $15,000.
He is linked to a November 2025 pardon by U.S. President Donald Trump for Joseph Schwartz.
If convicted, Nass could face up to 20 years in prison, and White House denies lobbyist influence in clemency.