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DOJ Moves to Vacate
The Justice Department moved to vacate the seditious conspiracy convictions of 12 members of the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers.
“The Justice Department on Tuesday asked a federal court to vacate Jan. 6 convictions against a dozen former members of the right-wing Proud Boys and Oath Keepers”
The filing asked the court to vacate the convictions and enable permanent dismissal of indictments.
Trump had pardoned over 1,500 people on his first day back in office, but 14 had their sentences commuted.
The DOJ stated it was not in the interests of justice to continue to prosecute these cases.
The move represents a dramatic reversal from the Biden administration.
Key Figures Included
The defendants include Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes and eight associates.
Proud Boys associates Ethan Nordean, Joseph Biggs, Zachary Rehl and Dominic Pezzola were also named.
Rhodes was sentenced to 18 years in prison for seditious conspiracy.
Pezzola became recognizable after video showed him smashing a Capitol window.
The DOJ said Nordean and Pezzola participated in every consequential breach at the Capitol.
Reactions and Criticism
The move drew stiff criticism from former Capitol Siege Section chief Greg Rosen.
“It's a reminder of what drove the pardons in the first place”
Xochitl Hinojosa said it gave a nod to individuals who conspired against the government.
Nordean's attorney praised the move as a wise decision.
Former Officer Michael Fanone called the rioters traitors to this country.
Broader Implications
The move is part of a broader effort to rewrite the history of the Jan. 6 attack.
Over 1,500 people were arrested, with roughly 1,270 convictions secured.
Approximately 140 law enforcement officers were injured during the riot.
The move raises questions about the future of accountability for political violence.