Two police officers who defended the Capitol from a pro-Trump mob on January 6, 2021, have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration. They aim to halt the creation of a fund they say is intended to reward rioters and militia groups.
The lawsuit was initiated by former Officer Harry Dunn of the U.S. Capitol Police and Officer Daniel Hodges of Washington’s Metropolitan Police. They claim the Trump administration established a nearly $1.8 billion fund as a “slush fund” to finance insurrectionists and paramilitary groups. Named as defendants are President Trump, acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
According to the suit, the administration has overstepped its authority by creating the fund without congressional approval. Trump officials describe the fund as compensation for those allegedly targeted by the Biden Justice Department and Democrats. However, it has faced strong opposition, including from some Republicans, who view it as a means to channel taxpayer money to Trump’s associates.
The lawsuit states that despite secrecy about the fund’s ultimate purpose, reports indicate it will compensate those charged with the Capitol attack. It claims the nearly 1,600 individuals accused are among the beneficiaries.
The White House has directed inquiries about the lawsuit to the Justice Department, which has not provided a comment.