Officers Sue Trump Administration Over Alleged Slush Fund for Rioters

Two police officers have initiated legal action against the Trump administration, aiming to halt the creation of a fund they claim supports individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. Officers Harry Dunn, formerly of the U.S. Capitol Police, and Daniel Hodges of Washington’s Metropolitan Police, argue this fund, totaling nearly $1.8 billion, serves as a reward for rioters and militia groups.

The lawsuit lists former President Trump, acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent as defendants. Dunn and Hodges allege the administration exceeded its legal authority by establishing this fund without Congressional approval.

According to administration officials, the fund is intended to compensate those they claim were unjustly prosecuted by the Biden administration and Democratic officials. However, the fund has faced opposition, including concerns from some Republicans, who view it as a mechanism to divert taxpayer money to Trump’s allies.

The lawsuit highlights concerns over the fund’s potential use to pay approximately 1,600 individuals charged with participating in the January 6 attack. Despite the administration’s lack of transparency, the lawsuit states that reports have clearly indicated the fund’s intended purposes.

The White House has deferred inquiries regarding the lawsuit to the Justice Department, which did not offer immediate comments on the matter.