Trump expected to pardon Silk Road founder Ross Ulbricht, vacating life sentence
Share and Follow

President Trump is expected to issue a pardon to Ross Ulbricht, founder of the notorious dark web site Silk Road, The Post has learned.

A source close to the White House said at midday Tuesday that the Ulbricht pardon was “incoming.”

Brandon Sample, Ulbricht’s clemency lawyer, told The Post in an email Tuesday: “We do expect President Trump to grant clemency.”

When asked for an update on the order’s progress, Sample mentioned the president’s promise made during his candidacy to release Ross on the first day in office. Sample expressed confidence that the president would fulfill this commitment, emphasizing Ross, his family, and supporters’ gratitude for President Trump’s act of mercy.

Trump, at 78 years old, made a public declaration in May that he planned to reduce Ulbricht’s life sentence relating to drug trafficking and money laundering to the time he had already served if he became reelected in 2024.


Ross Ulbricht was convicted for being the founder of the dark web site Silk Road.
Ross Ulbricht was convicted for being the founder of the dark web site Silk Road. REUTERS

In October 2013, Ulbricht was apprehended in San Francisco and charged with operating the infamous website known for selling illegal goods, including drugs, and accepting bitcoin payments, all while using the alias “Dread Pirate Roberts.”

Now 40, Ulbricht was convicted in February 2015 on charges including drug trafficking and conspiracies to commit money laundering and computer hacking. He was sentenced that May to two life terms in prison, plus 40 years.

Ulbricht has unsuccessfully appealed his conviction and sentence up to the Supreme Court, leaving him to serve out his time at a maximum security prison in Arizona.


President Donald Trump signs documents as he issues executive orders.
President Donald Trump signs documents as he issues executive orders. REUTERS

Trump’s campaign vow pleased many Libertarians, who champion Ulbricht as a pioneer of free markets and held up “Free Ross” signs as Trump spoke at their national convention.

The White House did not immediately respond to inquiries from The Post.

This is a developing story. Please check back for more updates.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Air Force One forced to turn around shortly after Trump takes off for Davos

Air Force One Returns Mid-Flight After Departure for Davos with Trump Onboard

On Tuesday night, Air Force One encountered a “minor electrical issue,” prompting…
Trump seizes seventh Venezuela-linked oil tanker

Trump Confiscates Seventh Oil Tanker with Ties to Venezuela

In a significant intensification of its ‘maximum pressure’ strategy against Venezuela, the…
Trump confirms he invited Putin to join his Board of Peace: 'He's been invited'

Trump Extends Invitation to Putin for Board of Peace: Unveiling a Controversial Diplomatic Move

On Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin…
Clip of Nicola Peltz being pulled into Beckham family snap goes viral

Nicola Peltz’s Viral Moment: The Heartwarming Story Behind Her Inclusion in the Beckham Family Photo

An infamous video clip featuring Nicola Peltz being ushered into a Beckham…
Prosecutor Bianca Pucci speaks as Nathan Chasing Horse appears in court for his trial on charges of sexually abusing Indigenous women and girls Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)

Opening Statements Commence in Sexual Assault Trial of ‘Dances With Wolves’ Actor Nathan Chasing Horse

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Prosecutors allege that Nathan Chasing Horse leveraged his…
Alexander Skarsgard sets record straight on his sexuality

Alexander Skarsgard Clarifies Speculation Regarding His Sexuality

Alexander Skarsgård has addressed ongoing rumors about his sexual orientation while clarifying…
Alexander brothers trade trophy listings for jury trial as accuser’s recent death shadows case

Alexander Brothers Face Jury Trial as Accuser’s Recent Passing Casts a Shadow Over High-Profile Case

The once-dominant figures in the world of luxury real estate, brothers Tal…
Carson Beck in handshake drama after devastating interception sealed Miami's national championship hopes

Carson Beck’s Controversial Handshake: The Interception That Derailed Miami’s Championship Dreams

For Miami’s quarterback Carson Beck, skipping class was the least of his…