In the wake of the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot, former Capitol Police Sergeant Aquilino Gonell expressed deep concern following the recent pardons issued by President Donald Trump. On January 20, 2025, Trump granted clemency to approximately 1,500 individuals convicted of crimes related to the insurrection, including those who harmed law enforcement officers like Gonell. This action has rekindled painful memories and ongoing struggles for many who defended the Capitol that day.
Impacts of the Pardons on Law Enforcement
Gonell, who defended the Capitol’s West Front, found refuge from the news on Inauguration Day. However, he was soon informed that individuals he had testified against were being released from prison. He stated, “They have tried to erase what I did with the pardons.” The officers, who encountered violence while protecting Congress, are grappling with both their physical injuries and the implications of these pardons. Gonell noted that he lost his career and health during the attack and is still striving to rebuild his life.
Challenges Faced by Capitol Police
On January 6, more than 140 police officers were injured as the situation escalated. Officer Daniel Hodges of the Metropolitan Police Department described being overwhelmed and attacked during the riots, indicating that public perception of the event has made recovery more difficult. “A lot of things are getting worse,” Hodges remarked, emphasizing the trauma that continues to linger.
Narrative Shift and Public Reaction
In interviews, officers expressed frustration over attempts to downplay the violence of the rioters, despite substantial video evidence documenting the chaos. Trump has referred to these rioters as “patriots,” raising questions about justice for those who defended the Capitol. Former D.C. police officer Adam Eveland voiced his distress over the pardons, signaling a need for more thoughtful consideration of each case.
- Officer Support: Many officers have spoken out since July 2021, sharing their experiences before congressional committees.
- Public Backlash: Some witnesses at Senate hearings showed support for Trump’s pardons, deepening intra-community divides.
- Changing Department Dynamics: Former Capitol Police Chief Thomas Manger noted the need for better equipment and training for officers during the attack.
Improvements After January 6
In response to the challenges encountered by officers, Manger implemented new wellness and counseling services and enhanced operational training. He stated improvements made the Capitol “a great deal safer” than it was prior to January 6. The forces now possess better preparation to thwart any similar invasive attempts in the future.
Moving Forward: Personal Journeys
Many officers have had to confront their trauma and find ways to cope. Pingeon, another officer, left the Capitol Police due to his experiences and has since focused on art and advocacy for nonviolence. “I want to move past it,” he said regarding his traumatic memories.
Gonell, despite his struggles, aspires to return to service while sharing his story through writing. Each officer’s experience during and after the Capitol riot serves as a testament to the violence they faced and the larger implications surrounding the perceptions of that day.
