Two Federal Prosecutors Put on Leave After Describing January 6 Rioters as a ‘Mob’: What You Need to Know

Recent Developments in the Jan. 6 Case: Prosecutors on Leave

The U.S. Justice Department recently put two federal prosecutors on leave after they described the Jan. 6 defendants, pardoned by former President Donald Trump, as a “mob of rioters.” This term appeared in a sentencing memo for Taylor Taranto. He was part of the events on January 6, 2021, where supporters stormed the Capitol as Congress certified the 2020 election results.

Though Trump pardoned Taranto and around 1,500 others from their Jan. 6 actions, this reprieve doesn’t cover his later behavior. In 2023, he was involved in a bomb hoax and showed up in a neighborhood with weapons. This led to his conviction for illegal firearm possession and making false threats.

As Taranto’s sentencing approaches, the government seeks 27 months of prison time. However, he may be released soon since he has already served time before his trial.

Prosecutors highlighted Taranto’s actions during the Capitol riot in their memo, noting that he “entered the U.S. Capitol Building” and pushed dangerous conspiracy theories about that day. Notably, just before his appearance in Obama’s neighborhood, Trump posted what was claimed to be Obama’s address online.

After the memo’s filing, Valdivia and White, the prosecutors involved, were informed about their leave. U.S. Attorney Jeannie Pirro didn’t directly discuss this but emphasized their commitment to tackling violence and threats against public officials, regardless of political affiliations.

Interestingly, Taranto was first identified by online “sedition hunters” who assisted in tracking down Jan. 6 individuals. This grassroots effort highlights the public’s role in legal investigations.

Among the hundreds pardoned by Trump, many have also faced additional legal troubles. Reports even indicate that some were involved in serious charges like child pornography, unearthed during investigations into their Jan. 6 actions.

As communities wrestle with the events surrounding January 6, it’s clear that the consequences are far-reaching and ongoing. The discussions around it continue to shape the political and social landscape.

For more details on related legal issues, visit ABC News.

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