In a move that’s sparked widespread debate, former President Donald Trump has granted pardons to nearly every individual convicted for their involvement in the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. This decision effectively halts the Justice Department’s massive four-year effort to bring those responsible to justice. The pardons, issued on Monday, cover approximately 1,250 people, including those who committed violent acts against law enforcement. For instance, individuals who assaulted DC police officer Michael Fanone or pepper-sprayed Capitol Police officer Brian Sicknick, who died the following day, are now free. Fanone expressed his dismay, saying, “My family, my children, and myself are less safe today because of Donald Trump and his supporters.” Notably, the pardons include far-right figures like Enrique Tarrio, leader of the Proud Boys, who was sentenced to 22 years for seditious conspiracy. Others, such as Robert Palmer, who attacked police with a fire extinguisher, and Devlyn Thompson, who struck an officer with a metal baton, are also among those let off the hook. Trump’s proclamation describes the pardons as a way to “end a grave national injustice.” However, critics argue this move undermines accountability for an attack that injured over 140 officers and led to multiple deaths. In addition to pardons, Trump directed the Justice Department to dismiss all pending January 6 cases with prejudice, meaning they cannot be reopened. Of these cases, about 60% involve felony charges related to violence against police. This decision marks a stark reversal from Trump’s earlier stance. In the days following the insurrection, he condemned the rioters, vowing they’d “pay” for their actions. Now, he’s reframed them as “hostages” and continues to spread unfounded claims about the FBI’s involvement in the attack. As the fallout from this dramatic move continues, it raises serious questions about justice, accountability, and the future of political divisions in the U.S.