WASHINGTON — The Justice Department's decision to abandon its $1.8 billion 'Anti-Weaponization Fund' does not end the push for compensation among January 6 riot defendants. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche announced Tuesday the fund was 'not moving forward,' but hundreds of individuals convicted for their roles in the Capitol attack are still pursuing damages through administrative claims and lawsuits.
Background of the Fund
The fund was initially announced last month as part of a settlement with President Donald Trump, who had sued his own government over a leak of his tax information. The agreement, which was not approved by a judge, aimed to resolve claims from Jan. 6 defendants and freed Trump from past tax liabilities. However, it faced backlash from Republican lawmakers and was ultimately shelved.
Ongoing Legal Actions
Peter Ticktin, a Florida attorney representing hundreds of Jan. 6 defendants, expressed disappointment but said his clients will proceed through traditional litigation. He recently filed a complaint on behalf of nine clients, each seeking over $1 million for lost wages, medical expenses, and emotional distress. The lawsuit alleges the riot was incited by 'agitators' protected by former Attorney General Merrick Garland and former FBI Director Christopher Wray.
Thomas Smith, who was convicted of assaulting police and spent two years in prison before receiving a pardon, stated, 'We will be compensated for the way we were treated.' He is among those filing claims under the Federal Tort Claims Act.
Other Developments
The Trump administration already agreed to pay nearly $5 million to the family of Ashli Babbitt, a rioter shot by Capitol Police. Mark McCloskey, another attorney for defendants, noted that the $1.8 billion fund might have been insufficient anyway. He has filed tort claims that could proceed independently.
Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward suggested the department would pursue tort claims as advocated by Sen. Lindsey Graham, but his social media post was later deleted. The Justice Department did not comment further.
Political Reactions
Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) supported case-by-case judicial review over the executive branch fund, saying, 'That's the way to go.' Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) called for Congress to ban the slush fund but had no issue with tort claims, emphasizing trust in institutions.
Smith, whose nine-year sentence was commuted by Trump, defended his actions, claiming police brutality. Over 1,500 people were charged for Jan. 6, with more than 140 police officers injured, according to the Justice Department.
