Thu Jan 23 03:32:01 UTC 2025: ## Trump Pardons Silk Road Founder Ross Ulbricht After Life Sentence

**Washington D.C.** – In a controversial move, former President Donald Trump has issued a full and unconditional pardon to Ross Ulbricht, the founder of the dark web marketplace Silk Road. Ulbricht, 40, was serving two life sentences plus 40 years for his role in operating the site, which prosecutors alleged facilitated over $183 million in illegal drug sales and more than 1.5 million transactions totaling approximately $213 million.

Trump announced the pardon on Tuesday, stating he had personally informed Ulbricht’s mother. He defended his decision on Truth Social, characterizing the prosecution as the work of “lunatics” who also targeted him. He described Ulbricht’s sentence as “ridiculous.”

Ulbricht was convicted in 2015 on seven counts, including distributing narcotics and engaging in a criminal enterprise. While he admitted creating Silk Road, his lawyers argued he relinquished control early on and was later framed. Prosecutors also alleged Ulbricht solicited murders, though he was not convicted on those charges.

The pardon has sparked debate. Supporters, including some libertarian and cryptocurrency advocates, argue Ulbricht was unfairly targeted for creating a platform, not directly selling illegal goods. They view his conviction as an example of government overreach. Republican Congressman Thomas Massie, a known libertarian, celebrated the pardon on X (formerly Twitter).

Conversely, critics point to the massive scale of illegal activity facilitated by Silk Road and the severity of the crimes involved. Judge Katherine Forrest, who presided over Ulbricht’s trial, described his actions as “carefully planned” and likened him to any other drug dealer.

Trump’s decision comes after previously stating he would commute Ulbricht’s sentence if re-elected. The pardon is yet another controversial act from the former President, generating significant discussion regarding the balance between individual liberty and the enforcement of laws against serious crime.

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