On January 20, 2025, the first two individuals convicted in connection with the January 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol breach were granted freedom following a historic executive action by President Donald Trump. Andrew and Matthew Valentin, two brothers from Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, were released from the Central Detention Facility in Washington, D.C. Their release marks a significant moment as part of Trump’s Day 1 pardons, signaling the beginning of the end of legal consequences for many involved in the Capitol riot.
The Valentin Brothers’ Legal Case
Matthew and Andrew Valentin were sentenced to prison on January 19, 2025, after being found guilty of crimes related to their involvement in the January 6 attack. Despite not entering the Capitol building, both brothers were involved in physical altercations with law enforcement officers outside the facility.
Matthew Valentin, aged 32, pleaded guilty in September 2024 to charges of assaulting and resisting officers. He faced up to eight years in prison. His younger brother, Andrew Valentin, aged 27, admitted to similar charges but with a more severe allegation: he was also accused of assaulting officers with a dangerous weapon. This charge could have led to up to 28 years behind bars.
Their actions included grabbing an officer by the neck, using a chemical irritant against law enforcement, and throwing a chair that struck an officer. Both men also stole officers’ batons and engaged in further verbal and physical confrontations.
Trump’s Day 1 Pardons and Release
President Trump, shortly after taking office, issued a sweeping executive order granting clemency to hundreds involved in the Capitol breach. Among those beneficiaries were the Valentin brothers, who became the first of the January 6 defendants to regain their freedom.
In a statement from the White House, Paul Ingrassia, the White House liaison to the Justice Department, declared the pardon as a “monumental moment in our history,” emphasizing the significance of ending what he referred to as “this dark chapter” in U.S. history. He added that the release of the Valentin brothers symbolized the closure of a period marked by injustice for those involved in the January 6 incident.
The Broader Context of January 6 Pardons
The January 6 Capitol riot, spurred by false claims from President Trump about the 2020 election being “stolen,” resulted in widespread criminal charges. The Justice Department pressed criminal charges against 1,583 individuals tied to the attack, which aimed to disrupt the certification of Joe Biden’s Electoral College victory.
Trump’s Day 1 pardons applied to a broad spectrum of those convicted, with approximately 1,500 individuals granted full or partial clemency, including commutations for 14 individuals. The move sparked debates about accountability and justice for the events of January 6, with supporters viewing it as a necessary act to correct perceived overreach in prosecuting the rioters, while critics argue it undermines the severity of the Capitol breach.
A Look at the Valentin Brothers’ Remorse
In letters written to the court, both Matthew and Andrew Valentin expressed deep remorse for their actions on January 6. Andrew, in particular, acknowledged the wrongfulness of his behavior, stating in his apology letter, “My intentions were never to hurt anyone and I cannot believe that I behaved in such a manner.”
Matthew Valentin’s attorney revealed that the 32-year-old had been haunted by the incident daily, a sentiment that is echoed in his own words, acknowledging the hurt caused to law enforcement officers and their families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the Valentin brothers pardoned?
The Valentin brothers were pardoned as part of President Trump’s executive order granting clemency to individuals convicted in relation to the January 6 Capitol breach. The pardon was part of a broader effort to release individuals convicted of crimes related to the riot.
What charges did the Valentin brothers face?
Both brothers faced felony charges related to assaulting and resisting law enforcement officers. Andrew Valentin was also charged with assaulting an officer with a deadly weapon.
Were the Valentin brothers involved in the Capitol building breach?
No, neither Andrew nor Matthew Valentin entered the Capitol building on January 6, 2021. Their involvement was primarily outside the Capitol, where they clashed with law enforcement.
How many individuals were charged in connection with the January 6 riot?
The Justice Department charged a total of 1,583 individuals in connection with the January 6 Capitol breach.
How many people were pardoned by President Trump on his first day in office?
President Trump issued pardons for approximately 1,500 individuals on his first day in office, including those involved in the January 6 events.
Conclusion
The release of Andrew and Matthew Valentin serves as a significant milestone in the aftermath of the January 6 Capitol breach, highlighting the complexity and controversy surrounding the event. While the Valentin brothers and many others involved have expressed remorse for their actions, the broader political implications of such pardons continue to stir debate. As President Trump moves forward with his Day 1 pardons, the country faces ongoing discussions about justice, accountability, and the healing process in the wake of the January 6 events.