Two police officers who defended the U.S. Capitol during a mob attack on January 6, 2021, have filed a lawsuit to prevent rioters and others from receiving payouts from a $1.776 billion settlement fund. This fund is intended for individuals alleging politically motivated prosecutions.
The lawsuit was filed a day after Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche supported the fund’s establishment at a congressional hearing. Blanche, previously a personal attorney for Trump, did not rule out possible payouts for those who attacked the Capitol police.
The officers’ complaint argues that the ‘Anti-Weaponization Fund’ is illegal and could potentially finance groups that enact violence in Trump’s name. The lawsuit describes the fund’s creation as a major act of presidential corruption, claiming it lacks legal authorization and breaches the Constitution and federal laws.
This fund originates from Trump’s lawsuit settlement with the IRS over leaked tax returns, aimed at compensating individuals who believe they were unfairly treated by previous administrations’ Justice Departments. A five-member commission appointed by the Attorney General will determine the payout recipients.
During the Capitol attack, over 100 police officers were injured and nearly 1,600 people were charged. Last year, Trump used his clemency powers to pardon these individuals.
The plaintiffs, Metropolitan Police Department officer Daniel Hodges and ex-U.S. Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn, assert the fund encourages violence. Both officers have testified before Congress regarding their experiences on January 6. Hodges was notably attacked by rioters, while Dunn is currently a congressional candidate in Maryland.
The officers allege that the fund increases threats against them. The commission, led by figures appointed by Blanche, will assess applications based on several criteria. In a CNN interview, Blanche stated that it is ultimately the commission’s decision to grant compensation, emphasizing his disdain for harm against law enforcement but acknowledging government payouts to individuals who sue it.
Blanche and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent are named as defendants in the lawsuit. Representatives from the Justice and Treasury departments have not commented on the legal action. Brendan Ballou, an attorney for the officers, previously prosecuted Jan. 6 cases for the Justice Department.
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