**Tim Leissner Files for Divorce from Kimora Lee Simmons Amid Imprisonment for Financial Crimes**
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Tim Leissner, the former managing director at Goldman Sachs, has initiated divorce proceedings against Kimora Lee Simmons just days before beginning a two-year prison sentence. The filing was made on April 20, citing irreconcilable differences as the grounds for the separation, according to documents acquired by PEOPLE.
Leissner, who pleaded guilty to charges of bribery and money laundering, signed the divorce paperwork on February 4, shortly before reporting to a Pennsylvania prison. His sentence stems from involvement in fraudulent activities related to the Malaysian 1MDB scandal, raising significant questions regarding ethics in financial institutions.

The marriage between Leissner and Simmons began on March 8, 2014, and together they have an eleven-year-old son named Wolfe Lee. As part of the divorce submission, Leissner has sought joint legal and physical custody of Wolfe. He has also requested spousal support, highlighting the financial implications of their separation amid his legal troubles.

While the specific date of their separation remains unclear in the filing, Simmons previously indicated that she was single by December 2025. In an interview at the time, she expressed that her life was not dependent on a romantic relationship, stating, “You have to look out for yourself. A man’s not going to be responsible to give you everything in life; it’s important to be independent.”
In her past relationship history, Simmons, 50, was married to music mogul Russell Simmons from 1998 until their separation in 2006, and subsequent divorce in 2009. Together, they have two daughters, Ming Lee, aged 25, and Aoki Lee, aged 23. Additionally, Simmons has a son, Kenzo Lee Hounsou, 16, from her relationship with actor Djimon Hounsou and adopted a child named Gary, aged 16, in 2020. She describes herself as taking on a significant parental role for her children, stating, “The kids are with me full time.”
In her reflections on co-parenting, Simmons has noted the challenges she faces, declaring, “Guys are weird,” in reference to her interactions with the fathers of her children. She emphasised her commitment to being a strong and self-reliant figure in her family’s life, mentioning it as vital for maintaining stability.
The divorce proceedings come as Leissner embarks on his prison term, raising further questions about the couple’s future and the impact on their son. While Kimora continues to manage her family life independently, the financial ramifications of Leissner’s past actions and their divorce remain an ongoing concern.
As Simmons navigates this phase, she appears resolute in prioritising her and her children’s well-being. Her determination to be a strong, independent parent stands out, especially during a tumultuous time in her life marked by significant changes. She acknowledges the importance of growth and strength in maintaining her family’s stability, amid the challenges posed by Leissner’s imprisonment.
The unfolding legal matters and personal circumstances presented by this high-profile divorce serve to highlight broader issues surrounding accountability in finance and the implications of personal actions on family dynamics. While Kimora Lee Simmons continues to adapt to her evolving situation, the outcome of these proceedings will undoubtedly shape the future for her and her children.
