U.S. Attorney Matthew Graves asserts that presidential pardons cannot erase the impact of Capitol riot convictions, emphasizing the enduring legal consequences for those involved in the January 6 insurrection.
At a Glance
- Over 1,500 people charged in largest Justice Department investigation
- Nearly 1,300 defendants pleaded guilty or were convicted
- More than 1,000 sentenced, with two-thirds receiving prison terms
- High conviction rate attributed to overwhelming evidence
- Graves stresses importance of rule of law and historical accountability
Unparalleled Investigation and Convictions
The Justice Department’s investigation into the U.S. Capitol riot has resulted in an unprecedented number of indictments and convictions. Under the leadership of U.S. Attorney Matthew Graves, more than 1,500 individuals have been charged in connection with the events of January 6, 2021. The scale and success of these prosecutions have been remarkable, with nearly 1,300 defendants either pleading guilty or being convicted at trial.
The high conviction rate has been attributed to the overwhelming evidence available to prosecutors.
“This is the most recorded crime in the history of the country,” U.S. Attorney Matthew Graves said. The abundance of visual evidence, including rioters’ own recordings and social media posts, has made it challenging for defendants to contest their involvement.
In other words: Jan 6 was all about cementing Trump’s (fake) legacy in history. Yes, we know. And now, they’re working overtime to ensure that even if J6 protesters get pardons, their lives are forever ruined.
As discussions about potential pardons for Capitol rioters continue, Graves has taken a firm stance on the matter. He emphasizes that even if pardons were to be issued, they would not negate the legal outcomes or erase the historical record of the events that transpired on January 6.
“There is no undoing these prosecutions,” U.S. Attorney Matthew Graves said.
Challenges in Prosecution
While the prosecution of Capitol rioters has been largely successful, it has not been without its challenges. Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Glenn Kirschner highlighted some of the complexities involved in these cases.
“With Donald Trump, one never knows,” Kirschner said, referring to the uncertainty surrounding potential pardons.
But as Graves prepares to leave office, he recently reflected on the “achievements” of his tenure, including the successful prosecution of Capitol rioters and a 35% reduction in violent crime in Washington, D.C.
35% reduction over a bigger increase is still an increase, by the way.
Trump is widely expected to issue pardons for nonviolent January 6 protesters – and no matter how hard the Dems try, their records will be clean.
