Two police officers present during the January 6 events at the U.S. Capitol have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration. They aim to block the Department of Justice’s new “anti-weaponization fund,” arguing it endangers safety by financing groups such as the Proud Boys.
Harry Dunn of the U.S. Capitol Police and Daniel Hodges from the Metropolitan Police Department are plaintiffs in the case. They are suing former President Donald Trump, his Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The lawsuit challenges the $1.776 billion fund, asserting it threatens their lives and safety. “The Fund’s mere existence sends a clear and chilling message: those who enact violence in President Trump’s name will not just avoid punishment, they will be rewarded with riches,” states the complaint.
The officers want judicial intervention to block the fund and reverse any payments processed by the Treasury Department. A spokesperson from the Department of Justice responded to Newsweek, labeling the situation as a misuse of federal resources by previous administrations against political opponents. The department emphasized its commitment to rectifying past injustices.
The complaint argues that the new fund is illegal, unconstitutional, and dangerous.
Todd Blanche described the fund on Monday as a resource for those alleging unfair prosecution under the Biden administration’s DOJ. However, Dunn and Hodges suggest the fund supports groups threatening law enforcement, including the Proud Boys, many of whom received pardons from President Trump after returning to office.
“The Anti-Weaponization Fund will both compensate and empower the very people making those threats. Militias like the Proud Boys will use money from the Fund to arm and equip themselves,” the complaint further states.
The legal filing maintains that the fund provides legitimacy to past violent acts and signals to those who might harm officers like Dunn and Hodges that they face no prosecution, but possible reward. The officers allege the fund primarily compensates almost 1,600 January 6 defendants and Trump allies.
The lawsuit criticizes the fund’s creation, arguing that the five-member commission overseeing the fund is not legally sanctioned and is vulnerable to misuse. This commission, accountable to the president and managed by the Attorney General, lacks statutory basis.
What is the Anti-Weaponization Fund?
The Justice Department announced the fund’s purpose as establishing a formal process for individuals alleging improper federal targeting, particularly under President Biden’s administration. It can issue apologies and financial compensation. Expected to operate for several years, the fund will be overseen by officials appointed by the Attorney General, with periodic reporting and potential audits included.
During a Senate hearing, Blanche defended the fund while facing scrutiny over its implications. Senator Chris Van Hollen questioned whether January 6 Capitol assailants would qualify for the fund. Blanche did not specify disqualification criteria, stating, “anybody in this country is eligible to apply if they believe they are a victim of weaponization.”
What Happens Next?
The officers seek a judicial declaration deeming the fund’s creation unlawful and aim to reclaim any allocated funds. The outcome remains pending further court proceedings.
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