Trump Grants Full Pardon to Former Oak View Group Co-Founder Tim Leiweke

President Donald Trump has issued a full and unconditional pardon for Tim Leiweke, the co-founder and former CEO of Oak View Group — the company behind Acrisure Arena and the Coachella Valley Firebirds.

Leiweke had been indicted on accusations of rigging a public bidding process related to an arena project in Texas. Federal prosecutors alleged he conspired to secure a competitive advantage by influencing a rival bidder, leaving Oak View Group in position to win the contract. He pleaded not guilty to the charge, which carried a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a one-million-dollar fine.

His defense was led by former Congressman Trey Gowdy, a known ally of President Trump, who had urged the Justice Department to drop the case or grant clemency. The presidential pardon was signed Tuesday, bringing the legal matter to a close.

In a statement, Oak View Group responded: “We are happy for Tim that he can now put this matter behind him. OVG has remained steadfastly focused on delivering exceptional outcomes for our clients under the leadership of our current CEO Chris Granger.”

Leiweke has been a major force in sports and entertainment venue development, including bringing the Firebirds and Acrisure Arena to the Coachella Valley.

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