Republican lawmakers, including Reps. Chip Roy (R-TX), Andy Biggs (R-AZ), and Thomas Massie (R-KY), have written a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland, questioning the Department of Justice’s aggressive prosecutions of those present at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. This investigation is considered “the largest criminal investigation in American history.
The lawmakers’ letter highlights their concerns about some individuals being charged with crimes they may not have committed or being overcharged for their actions during that event. They request a detailed breakdown of the names and charges against those prosecuted, as well as information on plea deals and sentences received. This information would aid in their constitutional oversight authority.
The Republican lawmakers mention multiple requests for briefings and information on this subject, which have largely gone unanswered by the Department of Justice. They also highlight other reports suggesting potential mistreatment of defendants in federal custody and raise concerns about the FBI’s possible involvement in facilitating the events of January 6th.
These lawmakers each chair Judiciary subcommittees – Roy heads the Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government, Biggs leads the Subcommittee on Crime and Federal Government Surveillance, and Massie is in charge of the Subcommittee on the Administrative State, Regulatory Reform, and Antitrust.