Story perspectives

Capitol Officers Reflect on Trauma Five Years Later

1/5/2026

Center

Capitol Officers' Struggles

Five years after January 6, 2021, officers who defended the Capitol still grapple with their experiences.
Former Capitol Police Sergeant Aquilino Gonell and Officer Daniel Hodges criticize pardons by the U.S. President Donald Trump.
Over 140 officers were injured during the attack, while many feel their struggles are minimized by political narratives.
Former Capitol Police Chief Thomas Manger notes improvements in officer support and training since 2021, despite debates.

Left

Democrats Commemorate January 6

House Democrats plan an informal hearing on January 6 to mark its fifth anniversary.
Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, the House Minority Leader, seeks to counter Republican narratives and criticizes pardons for rioters.
An investigation reveals U.S. President Donald Trump attempted to erase information about the attack.
Department of Justice (DOJ) has removed January 6 records, prompting Chief Justice James Boasberg to halt actions, while an archive of evidence is being created.

History

Historical Context

The January 6, 2021, Capitol Riot stemmed from President Trump's false claims about the 2020 election, leading thousands of his supporters to storm the Capitol to disrupt the electoral vote count. This unprecedented attack resulted in five deaths and over 140 injured officers, prompting significant reforms in Capitol Police operations and ongoing debates about political accountability and the implications of Trump's pardons for rioters.

1 of 3

Capitol Officers' Struggles

Five years after January 6, 2021, officers who defended the Capitol still grapple with their experiences.
Former Capitol Police Sergeant Aquilino Gonell and Officer Daniel Hodges criticize pardons by the U.S. President Donald Trump.
Over 140 officers were injured during the attack, while many feel their struggles are minimized by political narratives.
Former Capitol Police Chief Thomas Manger notes improvements in officer support and training since 2021, despite debates.

1 / 3