Pursued a Pardon in Trump's Justice System. It Added to His Problems.

Pursued a Pardon in Trump’s Justice System. It Added to His Problems examines how actively seeking presidential pardons has become more common under President Donald Trump. The article focuses on Michael Castillero, convicted last fall in Manhattan in a $386 million securities fraud scheme, whose pardon lawyer, Peter Ticktin, drafted a letter seeking clemency after emphasizing the case as “Biden lawfare.” Ticktin referenced prior decisions by judges including Jesse M. Furman and Lewis A. Kaplan, and argued Castillero’s political alignment made him a target. It also cites other attorneys saying discussing pardons with clients is now routine, even describing outcomes as “Wild West,” with pardons granted before charges or sentences. The piece notes Castillero pursued the pardon while also facing related federal proceedings tied to securities investigations and alleged obstruction. His earlier pardon effort, the article says, ultimately complicated his bid for a reduced sentence.