Tech

Who is Trevor Milton, startup founder convicted of fraud, pardoned by Donald Trump: all you need to know

Published

10 months ago

March 29, 2025

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US president Donald Trump, known for his cosy relationships with billionaires and entrepreneurs, has pardoned Trevor Milton, founder of electric vehicle startup Nikola, who was convicted of fraud and sentenced to prison in 2024.

When questioned about his decision, Trump simply stated that many people “recommended the move”.

Here’s the essential background.

What happened?

Milton, 42, founded Nikola in 2014, a startup which designs and manufactures EVs, including semi-trucks and pickup trucks. The firm listed on Nasdaq in June 2020.