A major police union, which had previously supported Donald Trump, spoke out late Tuesday about his decision to pardon people convicted for their roles in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol — including those who attacked law enforcement officers.
Right after taking office, Trump approved pardons for around 1,500 people, shortened the sentences of 14 others, and instructed the Department of Justice to drop any remaining charges against the rioters. Some of those pardoned had been convicted of violently assaulting police, while others were leaders of the attack, like Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio and Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes, who had been found guilty of seditious conspiracy.
The move has sparked criticism, including from some Republican lawmakers, such as former Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell and Sen. Thom Tillis. They’ve spoken out against pardoning those who hurt law enforcement officers.
At first, the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) didn’t comment on Trump’s pardons. When HuffPost reached out for a response, they said they had no statement on the matter, despite endorsing Trump in the 2020 election and congratulating him on his victory.
But just hours later, the FOP joined forces with the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) to release a statement. They criticized not only Trump’s pardons but also those granted by President Joe Biden, making it clear they were equally disappointed with both.
The statement started by acknowledging the positive relationships the unions had with both presidents, thanking them for their support of law enforcement. However, it went on to express deep concern over the pardons for people convicted of killing or assaulting police officers.
“The IACP and FOP firmly believe that those convicted of such crimes should serve their full sentences,” the statement said. They argued that crimes against police aren’t just attacks on individuals; they are attacks on society as a whole and weaken the rule of law. Releasing those convicted early sends a dangerous message, they warned, suggesting that attacking law enforcement won’t have serious consequences — something that could lead to more violence.
The unions are now urging lawmakers, courts, and community leaders to make sure justice is served by enforcing full sentences for those convicted of violent crimes against police officers. They said this would help maintain public safety and show respect for the sacrifices made by police officers and their families.
