Andrew Johnson, Formerly Pardoned Riot Participant, Facing Upcoming Child Abuse Trial
Andrew Johnson, previously pardoned for his involvement in the notorious Jan. 6 riots, is now set to stand trial on charges of child molestation. This follows his arrest in July, nearly half a year after he, along with over 1,500 others involved in the Jan. 6 incidents, were pardoned by the then-president.
Johnson is currently detained in Hernando County, Florida, where he is accused of sexually abusing a minor for several months. His trial is expected to commence soon.
Allegations of Attempted Bribery
Court documents reveal accusations that Johnson tried to keep the alleged victim quiet by offering a payoff. Johnson allegedly used his pardon for his participation in the Jan. 6 Capitol siege to persuade the victim to keep silent. The police report suggests Johnson promised the victim a portion of a multi-million-dollar reward he claimed to have received for being a "Jan 6er," and even assured the victim of a place in his will.
Previous Convictions and Pardons
Before these charges, Johnson, aged 44, had pleaded guilty to four federal charges related to his involvement in the Jan. 6 siege. Following his conviction, he was sentenced to a year-long prison term. His crimes included breaking into a private U.S. Senate meeting room and launching verbal assaults at police officers while amidst the chaotic crowd.
Despite his conviction, Johnson's prison term was cut short by a presidential pardon granted a year ago.
New Accusations
Florida law enforcement alleges that Johnson had no permanent residence in July and might have been residing in a van. Johnson maintains his innocence in the ongoing child molestation case.
A representative of the state prosecutor in Hernando County emphasized the seriousness of any case involving child exploitation or molestation, stating that those found guilty of such crimes should face the maximum penalties under the law.
Should Johnson be granted bail, he would be subject to GPS tracking and required to attend all court proceedings in person.
Not the First Pardoned Rioter to Face New Charges
Johnson is not the only Jan. 6 defendant to face fresh criminal charges after receiving a pardon. Other previously pardoned individuals have also had encounters with the law.
For instance, Zachary Alam, a Virginian who had been pardoned for his role in the Capitol riots, was arrested for breaking into a house near Richmond, Virginia. Alam has since been found guilty and awaits sentencing.
Christopher Moynihan from upstate New York was arrested for allegedly threatening to kill a House Minority Leader. Moynihan pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Similarly, John Banuelos, pardoned before his trial for discharging a firearm at the Capitol, is currently in custody in Utah. He is awaiting a hearing related to a kidnapping case. Banuelos was arrested after DNA evidence linked him to a kidnapping and assault case from 2018.