Pardoned Jan. 6 Rioter Accused of Using ‘Reparation Money’ Lie to Silence Child Sex Victim, Police Say

Florida investigators say Andrew Paul Johnson—previously pardoned for his role in the U.S. Capitol riot—promised a minor $10 million in fictitious Jan. 6 “reparations” while allegedly molesting two children.

HERNANDO COUNTY, Fla. | A Florida man pardoned by former President Donald Trump for his role in the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol riot is now facing severe new allegations after police say he used a fabricated promise of multimillion-dollar “reparation money” to manipulate and silence a child sex-abuse victim.

Andrew Paul Johnson, previously convicted for entering the Capitol during the 2021 riot and later pardoned in a wave of post-January 6 clemency actions, was arraigned in October on multiple child-sex charges. The alleged crimes involve two minors, including one as young as 11 years old, according to newly released police reports.

Allegations of Manipulation Using Pardon-Related Claims

Detectives from the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office say Johnson attempted to discourage one of the children from reporting the abuse by offering the prospect of a financial windfall. Investigators say he told the victim that because he had been pardoned for participating in the Capitol riot, he was entitled to $10 million in federal reparations—a fabricated claim he allegedly used to exploit trust and ensure silence.

According to the detective’s report, Johnson suggested the victim could receive a portion of this supposed payout if they stayed quiet. Law enforcement officials emphasize that no such reparations exist, and that Johnson’s claim appears to have been a calculated manipulation tactic.

A Growing Pattern Among Pardoned Rioters

Johnson’s arrest adds to an expanding list of Jan. 6 defendants who later encountered new legal trouble after receiving clemency or leniency. Criminal-justice analysts note a rising trend among pardoned rioters who, despite political reprieve, have since been arrested for unrelated offenses ranging from fraud to violent crimes.

Legal scholars say the Johnson case is likely to intensify scrutiny of Trump’s January 6 pardons, especially as the political debate around accountability for Capitol rioters continues to fracture national discourse.

Community Shock and National Fallout

Local authorities in Hernando County say the allegations have sent waves of alarm through the community, given Johnson’s elevated public profile following his pardon. Prosecutors are now preparing for what could become a closely watched legal proceeding, particularly if Johnson’s claims about “reparation money” are introduced as evidence of coercion, manipulation, or intent.

The case is also expected to play into broader national conversations about political extremism, accountability, and the long-term consequences of high-profile pardons tied to the Capitol riot.

Timeline of Charges and What Comes Next

Johnson’s arraignment occurred in late October, with prosecutors filing multiple felony counts related to sexual battery and lewd or lascivious acts involving minors. Additional hearings are pending, and authorities say more charges could be added as the investigation continues.

The sheriff’s office has urged anyone with additional information to come forward, stating that “protecting vulnerable victims and ensuring justice” remains their top priority.

======

-- By Andre Leday

© Copyright 2025 JWT Communications. All rights reserved. This article cannot be republished, rebroadcast, rewritten, or distributed in any form without written permission.