Capitol Police chief sounds off on Trump’s pardons of Jan. 6 rioters
Outgoing United States Capitol Police (USCP) Chief J. Thomas Manger has spoken out against President Donald Trump’s pardons of the Jan. 6 defendants, calling it one of the most troubling moments of his career. Manger, who is set to retire later this week, expressed his frustration and anger over the pardons, which came shortly after Trump’s inauguration earlier this year.
In an interview with WTOP, Manger criticized the decision to pardon nearly all of the defendants involved in the Capitol riot, stating that he was determined to continue making improvements in the wake of such a disappointing event. He emphasized the importance of standing up for the Capitol Police officers who were present during the attack.
Manger, who has been serving as USCP chief since July 2021, was hired to rebuild the force and implement reforms to enhance security and preparedness following the Jan. 6 riot. He has been vocal in condemning the attack as an insurrection and an assault on democracy, contrasting with Trump’s characterization of those who were imprisoned as “hostages.”
The veteran police chief’s career spans back to 1977 when he began as an officer with the Fairfax County Police Department in Virginia. He later served as chief of the department before becoming the chief of police in Montgomery County, Maryland. In 2019, he retired from the position before being appointed as the chief of the United States Capitol Police in 2021.
Manger also expressed disappointment over the Justice Department’s decision to pay $5 million to the family of Ashli Babbitt, who was shot dead during the Capitol riot. He viewed the settlement as sending a chilling message to law enforcement officers across the country, particularly those with protective missions like the USCP.
In December 2022, the USCP was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for their bravery on Jan. 6, 2021. Manger accepted the honor on behalf of the department, recognizing their courage in the face of adversity.
The USCP has a rich history dating back to 1800 when Congress moved to Washington, D.C., prompting the establishment of a Capitol Police force. The force was officially founded on May 2, 1828, following a series of incidents that highlighted the need for enhanced security and surveillance at the Capitol.
As Manger prepares to retire, his legacy as a dedicated law enforcement leader who stood up for the Capitol Police officers and upheld the values of democracy will continue to resonate within the force and beyond.
