Here’s what conservatives need to know.
The U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, Ed Martin, made it clear this past Thursday that the Justice Department is not dropping charges against two individuals involved in the January 6th Capitol incident for failing to appear for their trial. Despite the recent developments surrounding pardons for those involved in the events of that day, Martin confirmed that Joseph Daniel Hutchinson III and Olivia Michelle Pollock still face two charges each, even though the DOJ dropped eight others in light of President Donald Trump’s executive order.
Hutchinson and Pollock, who were arrested in 2021, had initially been charged with assaulting law enforcement officers, among other crimes. They became fugitives after removing their ankle monitors in March 2023, just days before their trial. According to reports, the pair, along with Pollock’s brother, Jonathan, were apprehended by FBI agents in Groveland, Florida, on January 6, 2024.
President Trump’s executive order, which pardoned many of the individuals convicted for their actions related to the Capitol riots, has stirred significant debate. Trump’s order also called for the dismissal of 470 ongoing cases. While the pardon was comprehensive for many, it did not extend to everyone involved. The former president did grant commutations to 14 individuals, though they did not receive full pardons.
However, not all Republicans are supportive of the blanket pardon approach. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) publicly voiced her concerns, saying she was disappointed by the pardon, particularly for those who inflicted harm on law enforcement officers and others during the unrest. She argued that this could send the wrong message to law enforcement and undermine the sacrifices made by those who protect us.
In spite of these controversies, the DOJ remains resolute in its pursuit of justice for those who sought to evade accountability for their actions on January 6th. While some may have received clemency, the rule of law still stands firm.