Here’s what happened.
On Tuesday, Daniel Ball, a Florida man involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, saw his case officially dismissed after receiving a full pardon from President Trump. However, just one day later, Ball found himself back in federal custody, facing new charges related to gun possession. His arrest marks the first time a January 6 defendant has encountered legal trouble after receiving the sweeping clemency granted to those involved in the Capitol protest during Congress’s certification of the 2020 presidential election results.
Ball had been charged with 12 counts connected to the Capitol breach, including assaulting law enforcement officers with a dangerous weapon and using explosives in the commission of a felony. According to prosecutors, he was one of the rioters who violently clashed with police at the Lower West Terrace entrance of the Capitol. After their attempts to push through failed, Ball allegedly threw an explosive device into the crowd of officers, injuring at least 25 of them. An FBI affidavit detailed these actions.
Although his trial was initially set to begin on January 6, 2024, the judge vacated that date in October, and soon after, President Trump issued a full pardon, wiping away the charges related to the riot.
In his new federal indictment, the previous riot charges are not mentioned, as those were erased by the pardon. Instead, Ball is now facing charges for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, stemming from a May 2023 incident. His criminal history includes prior convictions for domestic violence and assaulting law enforcement officers. These charges serve as a reminder that despite the clemency extended to many January 6 participants, some are still finding themselves entangled in further legal battles.
Ball’s case serves as a striking example of the complex legal landscape that continues to unfold after the Capitol riot. It highlights how, even with clemency, individuals can still face serious consequences for their past actions, particularly those with existing criminal histories. The incident also underscores the broader debate surrounding accountability and justice for those involved in the events of January 6, as well as the ongoing repercussions of the unrest that shook the nation.
