On his return to office, President Donald Trump wasted no time in issuing pardons for around 1,500 individuals who were convicted in relation to the Capitol riot that took place on January 6, 2021. Among those granted pardons was Enrique Tarrio, the former leader of the Proud Boys,, as announced by his family.
Tarrio, a 42-year-old Miami native, had been sentenced to 22 years in prison in May 2023 for his involvement in the Capitol attack. He was convicted of seditious conspiracy and other charges.
Tarrio, although not physically present at the Capitol during the riot, was accused by prosecutors of playing a key role in orchestrating the events from outside Washington, D.C.
The Tarrio family has issued a statement confirming his pardon. In their statement, they express their gratitude to everyone who stood by them, saying, “We are grateful for your support. The dawn of a new era is upon us!”
The family spokesperson announced that he is scheduled to reach Miami International Airport on Tuesday, January 21st, at 6:30 p.m.
According to Tarrio’s lawyer, they issued a statement that expressed their thoughts on the matter. In the statement, it was mentioned that this event is significant for their client as it represents a crucial moment in their life. Furthermore, it symbolizes a turning point for the entire nation. The lawyer expressed optimism for the future, stating that they are now moving forward and embracing new possibilities and opportunities.
In an interview with CBS News Miami last week, Zuny Duarte, Tarrio’s mother, expressed her belief that her son has been unfairly blamed for the events that occurred on January 6, 2021.
According to Duarte, it is clear to anyone with a realistic perspective that the government is utilizing his face, his organization, and his role as chairman of the Proud Boys.
Former Army captain Gabriel Garcia, who dedicated 15 years of his life to serving his country, found himself in a difficult situation when he was arrested on January 6, 2021. Despite his military background, Garcia was also a member of the Proud Boys.
“Finally, after enduring this challenge for four long years, I am relieved to have overcome it and can now return to a sense of normalcy,” Garcia expressed with a sigh of relief.
He spent two years under house arrest and wore an ankle monitor for four years. Following that, he faced charges of obstruction of justice and civil disorder.
“I faced the possibility of serving a sentence of up to 27 years just for entering a building with a flag. I want to emphasize that I didn’t cause harm to anyone, I didn’t damage any property, I didn’t incite violence, and I certainly didn’t enter with the intention of disrupting any proceedings or causing harm to anyone,” Garcia expressed.
CBS News Miami inquired about Garcia’s biggest anticipation now that he has received a complete pardon.
Garcia expressed his commitment to assisting fellow J-6ers who are incarcerated, ensuring that they receive the necessary support to secure their release and transition to a better place.
President Trump has granted clemency to individuals involved in the Capitol riot, including both non-violent participants and those convicted of more serious offenses.
In a statement, Trump justified the decision as a means to correct a long-standing national injustice and foster unity and healing.
Mauricio Maldonado has been a digital journalist in the South Florida area since 1997, currently serving as a digital editor for CBS Miami. He began his career at the Miami Herald in 1990 and later joined their online team in 1997. In 2001, Mauricio brought his expertise to SunSentinel.com, where he dedicated 17 years of his professional journey. Since 2018, he has been an invaluable member of the CBS Miami team.