In 2021, James Blassingame and Sidney Hemby sued Donald Trump for inciting riots at the Capitol. Police groups expressed that such crimes against law enforcement undermine the rule of law and public safety, affecting society as a whole. The lack of accountability sends a dangerous message and potentially incites more violence, prompting them to urge justice to act to prevent the effects of the pardons.
The assault on the Capitol occurred after Trump refused to accept his defeat in the 2020 elections. Five people died and 140 police officers were injured. After the attack, an officer died from his injuries, and four committed suicide or died from related heart attacks. The family of Brian Sicknick, who died after defending the Capitol, considered the pardons a betrayal.
On his first day as president, Trump signed the presidential pardon and commutation of sentences, benefiting nearly 1,500 people. The commutation of sentences for 14 members of the extremist organizations Oath Keepers and Proud Boys, leaders of the attack, was highlighted. It also included the leader of the Proud Boys, Enrique Tarrio, convicted of sedition.
The Fraternal Order of Police criticized the pardon granted by Trump to more than 1,500 convicted for the Capitol assault. The union questioned the full and unconditional pardon for those who participated in the attack, especially those who killed or assaulted law enforcement officers. Among the fallen officers is Brian D. Sicknick.
