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Alexandria, Va. – The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) is a staunch supporter of our nation’s commander-in-chief. We have worked with both the Trump and Biden administrations in the areas of criminal justice reform, law enforcement accountability, gun violence reduction, officer health and wellness, and a host of other areas. We must, however, share our concern over recent presidential pardons and sentence commutations for individuals convicted of killing or assaulting law enforcement officers.
We do not support the Trump administration’s unconditional pardon of nearly 1,500 individuals convicted for their actions in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Neither do we support the commutation of sentences for 14 others. The actions of the rioters are responsible for the injury of approximately 140 Capitol police officers. Additionally, Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick died from multiple strokes hours after the attack. Four other officers who responded to the Capitol attack later died by suicide.
We also object to the Biden administration’s commutation of the sentence of Leonard Peltier, who was convicted of killing two FBI agents in 1975. Peltier, 80, has spent nearly 50 years in prison after being convicted.
While we respect the sanctity of all lives, it is NOBLE’s belief that pardoning or commuting sentences of those convicted of assaulting and killing law enforcements officers shows disrespect for the service provided by those who commit their lives to public safety. Further, it appears to minimize the severity of these crimes and may encourage others with nefarious motives to engage in similar behavior. Equally so, at a macro level, it appears to reward the perpetrators of an insurrection attempt against the United States of America and minimize its extensive damage.
Accordingly, we encourage all American citizens to get involved in their communities to ensure equity in the administration of justice.
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About The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives
Since 1976, The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) has served as the conscience of law enforcement by being committed to justice by action. NOBLE represents over 4,800 members internationally, who are primarily African American chief executive officers of law enforcement agencies at federal, state, county, and municipal levels, other law enforcement administrators, and criminal justice practitioners. For more information, visit www.NOBLENational.org and follow on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.
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