Justice Department calls for former Jan. 6 defendant to be jailed following concerning return to DC

A man previously pardoned by former President Donald Trump for his involvement in the January 6 Capitol attack has returned to Washington, D.C., raising concerns among law enforcement and prosecutors. The individual was reportedly seen wandering near the residence of Democratic Representative Jamie Raskin, prompting authorities to urge a judge to order his immediate imprisonment.

U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols, who earlier convicted Taylor Taranto of threatening federal buildings and bringing weapons to President Barack Obamas neighborhood in D.C., has not yet mandated his return to prison. Nichols stated he will review the request in the coming weeks. In the meantime, during a Thursday court hearing, he instructed Taranto to return to his home in Washington state for the holiday period.

Taranto is among the January 6 defendants pardoned by Trump who have recently faced renewed legal scrutiny. He gained national attention after his 2023 arrest, which followed livestreamed threats against the National Institute of Standards and Technology and incidents at a Maryland elementary school involving threats toward Rep. Raskin. Authorities also discovered weapons in his possession in Obamas Kalorama neighborhood shortly after Trump publicly shared the address on Truth Social. Taranto had spent two years in pretrial detention.

Earlier this year, Judge Nichols convicted Taranto on the weapons and threat charges but did not impose further prison time, instead placing him on supervised release, which included regular check-ins with a probation officer. This arrangement, however, may be reconsidered.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Travis Wolf highlighted Tarantos return to D.C., erratic actions, and renewed livestreaming as significant warning signs of potential repetition of prior criminal conduct. Wolf cited mental health concerns, alleged breaches of supervised release conditions, and disturbing social media activity, including posts from the Pentagon parking lot, advocating for incarceration.

Tarantos defense attorney, Carmen Hernndez, requested additional time to assess the case and asked that he be allowed to remain in Washington state with his wife and children for the holidays. Probation officer Sean Stallman recommended avoiding jail, suggesting stricter supervision, enhanced monitoring of drug use, and psychiatric treatment. Stallman noted missed probation check-ins and ongoing mental health issues.

Following a court discussion, Taranto agreed to return to Washington state by Friday noon. Judge Nichols allowed the voluntary departure, forbidding his return to D.C. until after the New Year. A probation hearing in Washington state is scheduled for December 10. Nichols warned he is ready to incarcerate Taranto should he violate any court orders.

Author: Harper Simmons