Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Trump Grants Full Pardon to OVG Co-Founder Tim Leiweke in Texas Bid‑Rigging Case

The pardon ends the case, leaving corporate penalties intact.

Overview

  • A Justice Department document shows Trump signed the "full and unconditional" pardon on Tuesday, with the order posted online Wednesday.
  • The pardon immediately and permanently halts Leiweke’s Sherman Act prosecution and does not constitute a finding of innocence.
  • Leiweke was indicted in July over an alleged 2018–2024 scheme to have a rival drop a UT Austin Moody Center bid in exchange for promised subcontracts; he pleaded not guilty.
  • Oak View Group agreed to pay $15 million and Legends Hospitality $1.5 million in penalties tied to the conduct, while Leiweke stepped down as OVG CEO and moved to vice chair.
  • Leiweke pursued clemency with assistance from Trump ally Trey Gowdy, during a period of multiple high‑profile pardons by the president.