Trump pardons ex-Virginia sheriff Scott Jenkins after his conviction for accepting over $75,000 in bribes. Jenkins was due to begin a 10-year sentence Tuesday for appointing unqualified individuals as auxiliary deputy sheriffs in exchange for cash and campaign donations.
Jenkins, who served as sheriff of Culpeper County, was found guilty of conspiracy, honest services fraud, and multiple bribery charges. Prosecutors said he accepted bribes from several individuals, including two undercover FBI agents.
In return, he gave official badges and credentials to businessmen who had no training or law enforcement experience. These appointments were made despite clear risks to public trust and safety, according to investigators.
Trump pardons ex-Virginia sheriff through a public announcement, claiming Jenkins was the victim of a politicized and unjust prosecution. The former president said the Department of Justice, under the Biden administration, targeted Jenkins unfairly.
Trump accused the trial judge of blocking critical evidence. He described Jenkins and his wife as victims of a corrupt system. The pardon was granted unconditionally, just hours before Jenkins was set to report to prison.
The move has stirred controversy, as it follows Trump’s pattern of granting clemency to loyal allies or controversial figures. Critics say the pardon undermines accountability in public office. Supporters argue it corrects political overreach in law enforcement.
Trump pardons ex-Virginia sheriff amid broader efforts to challenge perceived judicial bias. He continues to criticize prosecutors, judges, and government agencies he sees as aligned against him.
Jenkins had previously expressed hope that Trump would step in. In a public webinar, he claimed his side of the story never reached the jury. He insisted he was denied the chance to present key facts during his trial.
Federal authorities maintain that Jenkins knowingly sold public authority for personal gain. The bribery case involved multiple co-defendants and a years-long investigation into corruption within his department.
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