Pardoned January 6 Rioter Admits Threatening Democratic Leader Jeffries
A recent development involving a January 6 rioter has brought attention to threats against political leaders. Christopher Moynihan, who was pardoned by former President Donald Trump, pleaded guilty to harassment charges connected to threats against U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
Pardoned January 6 Rioter Sentenced for Threatening Jeffries
On February 5, 2023, prosecutors reported that Moynihan, aged 35, admitted to a misdemeanor harassment charge during a court hearing in Clinton, New York. His sentencing is scheduled for April 2023.
Details of the Threat
According to court documents, Moynihan sent alarming text messages targeting Jeffries shortly before a scheduled public appearance. The messages included explicit threats, which were serious enough to induce fear for Jeffries’s safety.
- Moynihan stated: “Hakeem Jeffries makes a speech in a few days in NYC I cannot allow this terrorist to live.”
- He further threatened: “I will kill him for the future.”
These communications prompted law enforcement to act, as they indicated an imminent danger to Jeffries’s life. Dutchess County District Attorney Anthony Parisi emphasized the severity of such threats, stating they undermine public safety and democracy.
Background of Christopher Moynihan
Moynihan was previously sentenced to 21 months in prison in February 2023 on charges, including felony obstruction of an official proceeding. He participated in the Capitol riots on January 6, 2021, which sought to disrupt the certification of Joe Biden’s election victory.
On his first day back in office, Trump issued pardons to many individuals involved in the Capitol attack, reflecting a controversial stance regarding those previously charged. Moynihan is one of approximately 1,590 individuals charged in connection with the events of that day.
Follow-Up Actions and Repercussions
Since the Capitol riots, several rioters, including Moynihan, have found themselves re-arrested or facing additional charges. This highlights ongoing concerns about threats to political figures and the legal consequences for those who engage in such behavior.
As this case unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by elected officials in today’s politically charged environment.
