Trump DOJ Moves To Vacate Proud Boys And Oath Keepers Jan. 6 Seditious Conspiracy Convictions

The Justice Department moved to vacate the seditious conspiracy convictions of 12 members of the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers.

“DOJ moves to vacate convictions of Proud Boys, Oath Keepers from Jan”

ABC News

The filing asked the court to vacate the convictions and enable permanent dismissal of indictments.

ABC News

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.

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.

BBC

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.

The move drew stiff criticism from former Capitol Siege Section chief Greg Rosen.

“It was one of his campaign promises”

BFM

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.

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.

CBS News

Approximately 140 law enforcement officers were injured during the riot.

The move raises questions about the future of accountability for political violence.