Trump Commutes Prison Sentence of Ozy Media Founder Carlos Watson

The nearly 10-year sentence for Watson, convicted of fraud and identity theft, was commuted hours before he was set to report to prison.

Carlos Watson, co-founder of Ozy Media, was convicted in 2024 of securities fraud, wire fraud, and identity theft in a scheme to defraud investors.
President Donald Trump commuted Watson's nearly 10-year prison sentence on March 28, 2025, just hours before Watson was to begin serving his term.
The commutation also removed financial penalties, including nearly $100 million in restitution and forfeiture previously ordered by a federal court.
Ozy Media collapsed in 2023 after revelations of fraudulent practices, including the impersonation of a YouTube executive to secure investment.
Trump's decision has reignited discussions about his use of clemency powers and allegations of racial bias in Watson's prosecution.