Floridians Pardoned by Trump for Capitol Riot Crimes Walk Free from Prison

Headline: Trump Pardons Jan. 6 Rioters, Florida Residents Among Those Released

In the early hours of Tuesday, 10 Floridians walked out of Coleman federal prison in Sumter County to a cheering crowd of family and supporters. These individuals were among the 1,500 across the country who were pardoned by President Donald Trump for their involvement in the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol.

One of the released individuals, Daniel Lyons Scott, a member of the Proud Boys, expressed his gratitude towards Trump for showing loyalty to those involved in the riot. Scott, who served 16 months of a five-year sentence, did not expect to be pardoned, especially since he was convicted of violent crimes related to the riot.

Despite losing his marriage and time with his kids due to his actions, Scott maintains that he does not regret his involvement in the riot. He plans to rebuild his life, including getting his old job back and living with his girlfriend in Charlotte County. Scott also mentioned that he intends to exercise his newly restored rights by purchasing a gun.

Other individuals from the Tampa Bay area who were released included Zachary David Johnson, Michael Steven Perkins, and Robert Scott Palmer, all of whom were convicted of various offenses related to the riot.

The pardons have sparked mixed reactions, with some officials condemning the decision while others supporting it. Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson announced plans to commission a House investigation into the events of Jan. 6 to counter what he called “false narratives” from the Democrat-led committee.

Despite the controversy surrounding the pardons, those who were released are now faced with the challenge of rebuilding their lives after spending time in prison. Ginny Dohn, a nurse in Sumter County, highlighted the struggles that some of the released individuals face, including homelessness and job loss.

Overall, the pardons have brought a mix of relief and uncertainty to those involved in the Jan. 6 riot, as they navigate their return to society and attempt to move forward from the events of that day.