Bureau of Prisons No. 2 official who was pardoned for drug crimes departs
Summary
Josh Smith, the No. 2 official at the federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) who had been pardoned by President Trump for past drug crimes, unexpectedly left his job without explanation. During his time at BOP, Smith worked to change staff and improve prisoner rehabilitation but faced some tension with employees and controversy over contracts.Key Facts
- Josh Smith was deputy director of the Bureau of Prisons under President Trump starting in 2025.
- Smith had a criminal past and was pardoned by President Trump in 2021 for drug-related offenses.
- He served a five-year prison sentence before his pardon.
- Smith aimed to improve rehabilitation programs for prisoners and replaced about 70% of BOP executive staff.
- Some BOP employees questioned contracts awarded during his time in office.
- Smith hosted a podcast called "Transparency Talks" and made surprise visits to prisons.
- Reality TV star and convicted felon Todd Chrisley, also pardoned by President Trump, was allowed to visit prisons and appeared at prison events during Smith’s tenure.
- Smith announced his departure without giving a reason; a BOP spokesperson confirmed the move but declined further comment.
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