Jonathan Braun, a convicted New York drug dealer and predatory lender, had his 10-year federal prison sentence commuted by former President Donald Trump in 2021. However, he has since been arrested on assault charges. Braun was accused of assaulting his father-in-law and wife in separate incidents in Nassau County, Long Island. He pleaded not guilty to three counts of assault and petit larceny related to unpaid bridge tolls. In a civil case, Braun was fined $20 million for predatory lending practices.
Trump’s spokeswoman implied that Trump believes criminals should be in prison, in contrast to Democratic nominee Kamala Harris’s stance on cash bail. Braun was released from prison after serving more than five years, but remains on supervised release and could be sent back to jail if he violates the terms. It was reported that prosecutors had been negotiating a cooperation deal with Braun before his clemency, and his family reportedly used connections to Jared Kushner to secure his release.
Braun’s recent arrest highlights the ongoing legal troubles he faces despite his clemency. He has a history of criminal behavior and involvement in illegal activities. The circumstances surrounding his clemency, as well as his subsequent arrest, have raised questions about the influence of political connections in the criminal justice system. Braun’s case serves as a reminder of the complexities and controversies surrounding presidential pardons and commutations.
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