WASHINGTON – Former money manager Bernie Madoff, who was convicted of masterminding the largest Ponzi scheme in history, is seeking to have his 150-year sentence reduced by President Donald Trump.

Madoff has filed a petition for clemency with the Justice Department, according to the agency's website. It is unclear from the limited information available on the website when the petition was filed. It has a "pending" status.

In 2009, Madoff pleaded guilty to 11 counts of financial crimes, including fraud, money laundering, perjury and theft, according to the New York Times. He has been serving his sentence at a federal prison in Butner, North Carolina.

Throughout his tenure in office, Trump has rarely pardoned or granted clemency to those who applied through the Justice Department's established process via the department's Office of the Pardon Attorney.

More:Trump grants clemency to grandma whose case was championed by Kim Kardashian West

What we learned from Mueller:Seven hours, zero bombshells and everyone declares victory

Last year, he denied requests from 180 people who had applied for pardons and commutations through the Justice Department.

However, Trump has pardoned political allies who have not applied formally, such as Dinesh D'Souza and Joe Arpaio. He has also granted clemency to people who have been recommended by celebrities. It is unclear whether or when the president will take up Madoff's petition.

Trump in a 2008 CNN interview called Madoff a “sleazebag," “a total crook," and a "disgrace."

In his 2009 book, "Think Like a Champion," Trump also criticized Madoff.

"He is without a doubt a sleazebag and a scoundrel without par," he said.

Like what you’re reading?:Download the USA TODAY app for more