Former President Donald Trump is preparing to pardon people convicted of nonviolent crimes during the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot and reduce sentences for others involved in more serious offenses.
CNN reports that Trump is expected to sign an executive order soon, which could also result in the Justice Department dropping charges in some cases that haven’t gone to trial yet.
The Capitol attack, which lasted seven hours, caused injuries to over 140 police officers and disrupted the peaceful transfer of power.
CNN highlights that more than 730 people have been convicted of minor crimes, like trespassing or disorderly conduct, with most serving probation or short jail terms. Additionally, 300 cases are still pending, many involving serious charges like assaulting police officers.
According to CNN, some of the nonviolent defendants include elderly individuals or people who entered the Capitol for only a few minutes without causing harm. Many have no prior criminal records and claim they didn’t intend to disrupt Congress or harm anyone. Some even believe they were let into the building by police officers.
CNN explains that this pardon plan ties into Trump’s past promises to support his followers involved in the Capitol riot. The Justice Department’s investigation into January 6 is the largest in U.S. history, involving over 1,580 people charged and about 1,270 convictions.
By focusing on nonviolent cases, Trump appears to be addressing what some see as overly harsh consequences for individuals caught up in the chaos.
CNN notes this move could spark debate about accountability versus forgiveness for those involved in the attack.