Pardoned Jan. 6 Rioter Andrew Taake Arrested on Child Solicitation Charges

Andrew Taake, a pardoned January 6 Capitol rioter, has been re-arrested on charges of online solicitation of a minor, just weeks after receiving a presidential pardon from Donald Trump. Taake, previously serving a six-year sentence for assaulting law enforcement officers during the Capitol riots, had been on the run for two weeks before his capture in Texas. His criminal history includes a 2016 charge for soliciting a minor, which resurfaced following his release from prison. The Harris County District Attorney emphasized the successful collaboration of law enforcement agencies in apprehending Taake, who is now awaiting transfer to jail. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding the backgrounds of individuals pardoned by Trump, as many have prior convictions for serious offenses. Legal interpretations of the pardons have raised questions about what charges are covered, particularly those discovered as a result of January 6 involvement.