On January 6, 2021, around 10,000 individuals attempted to disrupt the peaceful transition of power instigated by President Trump.
These individuals stormed the U.S. Capitol, and many confronted over 140 police officers, using various weapons against them.
As one of those officers, I can attest to the truth of these events.
My colleagues and I faced a relentless onslaught, managing to hold our ground long enough to ensure the safety of Congress and the Vice President. That night, the certification of the 2020 presidential election went ahead as planned.
Tragically, a Capitol police officer who was injured in the chaos suffered a stroke the next day and passed away. Four other officers who responded to the riot died by suicide in the months that followed.
For a fleeting moment, there was a sense of unity in Congress, marked by fear over the election outcomes and gratitude towards their protective officers. Unfortunately, that sentiment was short-lived.
Yet, from that somber moment, they did enact a law to create a plaque on the Capitol’s west front to honor the individuals who defended democracy.
However, this plaque now resides underground within the Capitol, out of public view. Those responsible for its creation have shifted the blame for its non-compliance, leading to it still being hidden away.
I’m taking legal action to compel Congress to adhere to the law and finally install these memorial plaques as mandated.
It’s important to clarify that my motivation for this lawsuit isn’t about gaining personal recognition. Honestly, I’ve had enough praise, and I’m not one to seek the limelight. I’m not campaigning for office, nor do I have any books or podcasts to promote. This legal effort won’t advance my career in any way.
I’m not receiving any compensation for this; all of this is funded by my own resources. This initiative isn’t about benefiting politicians who’ve been supportive. Though I appreciate their kindness, they aren’t behind this legal action. This is purely about something deeply significant.
The motivation behind this endeavor is clear to anyone with a sense of morality. My fellow officers deserve recognition, and I’m advocating for the installation of this plaque.
It’s important to acknowledge their dedication, well-being, and sacrifices.
I’m stepping forward because those who found the events of that day troublesome for their own agendas are attempting to rewrite history, portraying those who stormed the Capitol as patriots, suggesting their motives were justifiable.
Unlike these distorters of truth, who were nowhere near the Capitol as my colleagues defended it, I witnessed firsthand the hatred and violence in the hearts of the rioters.
Daniel Hodges is a metropolitan police officer. A new lawsuit is being filed to mandate that Congress properly install the memorial required for January 6th.
