Two police officers filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration on Wednesday, aiming to stop the Department of Justice’s new “anti-weaponization fund.” They caution that this fund will support organizations like the Proud Boys. The officers, present during the January 6 disturbances at the U.S. Capitol, confronted individuals protesting the 2020 election results.
They have sued President Donald Trump, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, claiming the $1.776 billion fund poses a danger to their safety. “The Fund’s mere existence sends a clear and chilling message: those who enact violence in President Trump’s name will not just avoid punishment, they will be rewarded with riches,” the complaint states.
U.S. Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn and Metropolitan Police Department officer Daniel Hodges seek a court order to stop the fund and overturn any disbursements made by the Treasury Department.
A Department of Justice spokesperson commented to Newsweek, “The only thing illegal and corrupt about this situation is the brazen weaponization of federal resources by previous administrations to retaliate against those with opposing political beliefs. This Department will continue to expose this lawfare and ensure those who experienced injustices are made whole.” Newsweek also contacted the White House and the Treasury for comments.
Police Officers’ Sue Over DOJ Fund: What To Know
The complaint argues that the fund is illegal, unconstitutional, and dangerous. Blanche stated the fund would serve individuals who feel unjustly prosecuted by the Biden administration’s DOJ. Dunn and Hodges argue it would mean federal support for groups threatening law enforcement, including the Proud Boys, many of whom received pardons when Trump returned to office.
The complaint highlights, “The Anti-Weaponization Fund will both compensate and empower the very people making those threats. Militias like the Proud Boys will use money from the Fund to arm and equip themselves.” It further indicates that past acts of violence would gain formal approval and signal future aggressors they could expect rewards instead of prosecution.
The lawsuit repeatedly claims the fund aims to compensate January 6 defendants, nearly 1,600 individuals, alongside President Trump’s allies. It also criticizes the fund’s formation, noting the commission lacks statutory support and opens avenues for misuse.
What is the Anti-Weaponization Fund?
The Justice Department detailed the fund would create a system for claims alleging improper federal targeting during the Biden administration. It will provide apologies and financial compensation. The fund is planned to last several years with oversight from officials chosen by the attorney general, incorporating periodic reports and audits.
On Tuesday, Blanche defended the fund during a Senate hearing originally set to examine the Trump administration’s DOJ budget request. Instead, he debated senators on the fund, DOJ’s Epstein files handling, and administration’s prosecutions.
Senator Chris Van Hollen, a Democrat from Maryland, queried Blanche on whether individuals who attacked police during the January 6 Capitol riot would be eligible. Blanche declined to specify rules excluding them, stating, “As was made plainly yesterday, anybody in this country is eligible to apply if they believe they are a victim of weaponization.”
What Happens Next
The two officers seek a judicial declaration that the fund’s creation is unlawful and aim to recover funds already allocated to it.
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