Two law enforcement officers who defended the U.S. Capitol from a mob of Donald Trump's supporters on January 6, 2021, have filed the first federal lawsuit to dissolve the administration's newly created compensation fund, which they argue illegally rewards rioters for violence against police.
Lawsuit Targets Nearly $1.8 Billion Fund
The lawsuit, filed by former Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn and Metropolitan Police Department officer Daniel Hodges, seeks to block the nearly $1.8 billion 'Anti-Weaponization Fund.' The fund was launched as part of a settlement agreement between President Trump and the IRS after Trump sued his own administration for $10 billion.
Officers' Claims of Ongoing Threats
Dunn and Hodges, who were beaten and bloodied during the attack, said Wednesday they have faced 'persistent and credible threats of violence' from members of the mob in the years since. With Trump having issued sweeping pardons for virtually everyone charged in connection with the attack, the officers now anticipate that rioters will file claims with the fund, effectively serving as a 'reward' for attacking law enforcement.
Brendan Ballou, founder of the Public Integrity Project representing the officers, stated: 'This Fund creates enormous physical dangers for Officers Dunn and Hodges, who risked their lives on January 6, 2021, and who continue to do so by refusing to let that day be forgotten. The Fund is stunningly, blindingly illegal, and the defendants must be prohibited from transferring money to this corrupt and illegal monstrosity.'
This is a developing story.
