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Clinton Today
By the People, for the People
Man Pardoned for Capitol Riot Pleads Guilty to Threatening Congressman
Christopher P. Moynihan agreed to serve 3 years of probation for threatening to kill House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
Feb. 6, 2026 at 6:47pm
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A New York man named Christopher P. Moynihan, who was previously pardoned by former President Trump for his role in the January 6th, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol, has pleaded guilty to threatening to kill House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Moynihan agreed to serve 3 years of probation as part of the plea deal.
Why it matters
This case highlights the ongoing challenges of dealing with individuals who have been pardoned for political crimes, as they may continue to engage in threatening or illegal behavior. It also raises concerns about the safety of elected officials and the broader implications for democracy when political violence and threats are not adequately addressed.
The details
Moynihan, a 35-year-old from Pleasant Valley, New York, was originally charged with a felony for making a terrorist threat after he allegedly sent a text message in October 2025 saying he "cannot allow this terrorist to live" and that Jeffries "must be eliminated" and "will be killed". As part of the plea deal, Moynihan pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor harassment charge.
- In January 2025, Moynihan was among hundreds of convicted Capitol rioters who were pardoned by former President Trump on his first day back in the White House.
- On October 2025, Moynihan allegedly sent the threatening text messages about Congressman Jeffries.
- On February 6, 2026, Moynihan pleaded guilty to the misdemeanor harassment charge and agreed to serve 3 years of probation.
The players
Christopher P. Moynihan
A 35-year-old man from Pleasant Valley, New York who was previously pardoned by former President Trump for his role in the January 6th, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol, and has now pleaded guilty to threatening to kill House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
Hakeem Jeffries
The House Minority Leader, a Democratic Congressman from New York who was allegedly threatened by Moynihan.
What they’re saying
“Threats against elected officials are not political speech, they are criminal acts that strike at the heart of public safety and our democratic system.”
— Anthony Parisi, Dutchess County District Attorney
What’s next
Moynihan's sentencing is scheduled for April 2, 2026, where the judge will determine the final terms of his 3-year probation sentence.
The takeaway
This case underscores the ongoing challenges of addressing political violence and threats, even when individuals have been previously pardoned for related crimes. It highlights the need for robust mechanisms to hold those who threaten elected officials accountable, in order to protect public safety and the integrity of democratic institutions.
