Former Police Officers Criticize Trump’s Stance on Capitol Attack Rioters

Former Officers Denounce Trump

Former U.S. Capitol Police sergeant and a current D.C. police officer criticized former President Donald Trump for his support of rioters involved in the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol. The officers accused Trump of being anti-law enforcement for praising individuals charged with crimes related to the incident.

Capitol Attack Details

During the attack, both officers sustained injuries while trying to defend the Capitol from supporters of Trump who sought to prevent the certification of the 2020 election results. The officers emphasized that Trump’s false claims about the election instigated the violence that unfolded that day.

Officer Testimonies

Former U.S. Capitol Police Sgt. Aqulino Gonell, who hails from the Dominican Republic, revealed the harrowing ordeal he faced during the Capitol attack. He highlighted how Trump referred to the rioters as “hostages,” questioning the former president’s regard for law enforcement officers like himself.

Similarly, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department Officer Daniel Hodges condemned Trump’s divisive rhetoric that fuels political violence. Despite Trump’s claims of being pro-law enforcement, both officers argued that his actions indicate otherwise.

Trump’s Controversial Actions

Trump’s support for convicted Capitol attackers has drawn criticism from the law enforcement community. The officers pointed out Trump’s opportunistic behavior in exploiting tragic events for political gain, such as attending the wake of a slain police officer while continuing to downplay the Capitol attack.

Impact of Trump’s Behavior

Hodges and Gonell highlighted the contrast between Trump’s actions and his supposed support for law and order. Trump’s controversial statements, including calling jailed rioters “patriots” and playing the national anthem sung by convicted individuals, have further fueled the officers’ disapproval.

Choir Members Involved in Capitol Attack

Several members of the J6 Prison Choir, implicated in the Capitol attack, have either been convicted or pleaded guilty to various charges. The choir members’ violent actions, which included assaulting officers and making death threats, underscore the severity of the attack instigated by Trump’s baseless claims.

Upcoming Events

The officers’ statements coincided with Trump’s scheduled rally in Michigan, where he plans to discuss immigration issues. Hodges criticized Trump for politicizing a recent murder case to stoke fear and division, reflecting the officers’ concerns about Trump’s divisive tactics.

Overall, the testimonies of Gonell and Hodges shed light on the lasting impact of Trump’s rhetoric on law enforcement and the nation as a whole. Their condemnation of Trump’s actions serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding the rule of law and condemning political violence.

Read More of this Story at ny1.com – 2024-04-01 23:25:00

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