January 21, 2025

President Trump’s near-total pardon of Jan. 6 rioters was denounced by the Fraternal Order of Police, the largest police union in the U.S., and the International Association of Chiefs of Police on Tuesday.

The big picture: The groups said they’re deeply discouraged by pardons and commutations made by both the Biden and Trump administrations of individuals convicted of killing or assaulting law enforcement officers.

Driving the news: The groups said in a statement they firmly believe those convicted of such crimes should serve full sentences.

• “Allowing those convicted of these crimes to be released early diminishes accountability and devalues the sacrifices made by courageous law enforcement officers and their families,” per the statement.
• “When perpetrators of crimes, especially serious crimes, are not held fully accountable, it sends a dangerous message that the consequences for attacking law enforcement are not severe, potentially emboldening others to commit similar acts of violence,” the unions said.

Between the lines: The group did not specifically mention which pardons they were referring to, but the only ones issued in the second Trump administration concerning such violent assaults involve Jan. 6. 

Zoom in: Newly inaugurated Trump signed an executive order on Monday granting a “full, complete and unconditional pardon” to the vast majority of Jan. 6 defendants charged with participating in the Capitol riot four years ago.

• Among the roughly 1,500 pardoned and 14 others whose sentences were commuted were leaders of the extremist groups Proud Boys and Oath Keepers who were convicted of the seditious conspiracy for their roles in the attack.

• Representatives for Trump did not immediately respond to Axios’ request for comment. Representatives for Biden could not immediately be reached for comment.

Flashback: The Fraternal Order of Police endorsed Trump in 2016, 2020 and 2024.

https://www.axios.com/2025/01/22/police-union-trump-jan-6-pardons