Judge Allows Capitol Riot Defendant to Attend Inauguration

William Pope, a defendant facing misdemeanor charges related to the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, has been granted permission by U.S. District Judge Rudolph Contreras to travel to Washington, D.C., to attend President-elect Trump's inauguration from January 19 to 21, 2025. Despite objections from the Department of Justice, which argued that Pope poses a danger to the D.C. community, the judge noted that Pope is not charged with assault or vandalism-related offenses. Pope, who is representing himself, argued that he has had positive interactions with Capitol Police during previous visits to Washington. This decision comes amid Trump's pledge to pardon many January 6 defendants. The ruling also reflects the potential for upcoming pardons to alter the legal landscape regarding ongoing trials. Contreras has previously delayed trials to avoid unnecessary proceedings if pardons are issued.