In a shocking move, former President Donald Trump granted clemency to hundreds of individuals involved in the violent Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. While many of the pardoned rioters had no prior criminal records, NPR’s investigation reveals a disturbing number had violent criminal histories, including convictions for rape, domestic violence, and child sexual abuse.
One of the most tragic cases involves Matthew Huttle, who had a long history of criminal offenses, including abuse of his own child. Despite pleading guilty to a misdemeanor charge related to the Capitol riot, Huttle’s extensive criminal record, which included severe child abuse, went largely unaddressed in his pardon. Huttle’s life ended tragically just days after receiving the pardon when he was shot and killed by police in Indiana.
Other rioters with disturbing pasts include Theodore Middendorf, who was convicted of child sexual assault, and Peter Schwartz, who had 38 prior convictions, including assault and domestic abuse. Schwartz was sentenced to over 14 years for his role in the Capitol breach, but Trump’s pardon released him from prison.
The pardons, which Trump defended as necessary due to the overwhelming number of rioters, have raised questions about the justice system’s approach to individuals with violent pasts. Many argue that pardoning those with such criminal histories undermines the seriousness of their offenses and sends a troubling message.
Trump’s clemency order applied only to Jan. 6-related offenses, leaving some individuals still facing unresolved charges for other crimes. Among them is David Daniel, who faces charges related to child pornography. Although pardoned for his Capitol involvement, his other legal battles continue.
This revelation has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, as the pardons highlight not only the severity of the Capitol riot but also the complexities of criminal justice and political decisions that shape it.
