**Goldman Sachs Banker Seeks Dismissal of Bribery Case Amid Executive Order**
A former Goldman Sachs banker, Asante Berko, is requesting the U.S. government to dismiss a foreign bribery case against him, referencing an executive order issued by former President Donald Trump. Berko’s attorney, Robert Boone, made this request during a federal court hearing, indicating that he has formally communicated with the government regarding the dismissal.
Berko was indicted in 2020 for allegedly conspiring with at least two officials from Ghana in a bribery scheme linked to an undisclosed Goldman Sachs client. This recent request follows Trump’s executive order, which aimed to reduce the enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), a law that Trump argued disadvantages American companies in the global market. Since the issuance of this order, the Justice Department has been reassessing FCPA prosecutions, including the dismissal of a case in New Jersey.
During the hearing, prosecutor Tara McGrath informed U.S. District Judge Diane Gujarati that discussions regarding the dismissal request are ongoing, with decisions being made at higher levels within the Justice Department. Berko was arrested at Heathrow Airport in London in 2022 and fought extradition to the U.S. He pleaded not guilty to the charges last year.
Judge Gujarati encouraged both parties to notify her in writing if a decision is reached to drop the case, expressing her desire to avoid unnecessary motions. Following the court proceedings, representatives from the U.S. Attorney’s office and Goldman Sachs declined to comment.
In April 2020, Berko resigned from his position as head of Ghana’s state-owned oil refinery after U.S. regulators accused him of orchestrating bribes during his tenure at Goldman Sachs. He later settled the case by agreeing to pay over $329,000 without admitting or denying the allegations.
**FAQ**
**What is the status of the bribery case against Asante Berko?**
Asante Berko’s attorney has requested the U.S. government to dismiss the bribery case against him, citing a recent executive order from former President Trump that impacts the enforcement of related laws. The Justice Department is currently reviewing this request.