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4w ago

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, CEO of Ozy Media, departs U.S. Federal Court in Brooklyn after being arrested and charged with fraud in New York City, New York, U.S., February 23, 2023. REUTERS/David Dee Delgado/File Photo
Donald Trump
Carlos Watson leaves Brooklyn federal court after testifying in his own defense in New York, on July 1, 2024.
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Overview

  • 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.