Full Breakdown
Threatening Remarks by Pardoned Jan. 6 Rioter Jake Lang Lead to New Charges
3/3/2026, 6:47:10 AM
Overview of the Incident
Jake Lang, a pardoned rioter from the January 6 Capitol insurrection, has been charged with making threatening statements against Metropolitan Police Cmdr. Jason Bagshaw. This incident occurred during a fifth-anniversary event of the Capitol riot, where Lang confronted Bagshaw, who was present during the violent clashes on January 6, 2021. Lang's remarks included threats of violence, stating that Bagshaw should be “put down like a dead dog” and “hung” in front of the Capitol.
Details of the Charges
Lang faces a misdemeanor charge in D.C. Superior Court, with prosecutors alleging that his statements constituted threats. According to the prosecution, Lang approached Bagshaw, pointed at him, and declared, "Public execution is the only solution for animals like you," while suggesting that Bagshaw should be dragged "out by his ankles" and thrown "in the Potomac." Following the issuance of a warrant, Lang was arraigned and pleaded not guilty. A status hearing is scheduled for March 24, and he has been issued a stay-away order.
Background on Jake Lang
Jake Lang is known as a white supremacist and pro-Trump influencer. He was part of the violent confrontations between Trump supporters and law enforcement at the Capitol's lower west tunnel on January 6, 2021. His actions during the riot were captured on various forms of media, including cellphone and CCTV footage. Lang had previously boasted about his involvement on social media, referring to the rioters as "an organized unit of patriots trying to take on tyrants." Despite the strong evidence against him, including his expressed willingness to use violence, Lang was not convicted before receiving a pardon from former President Donald Trump in January 2025.
Official Statements & Responses
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, which manages both local and federal crimes, has not provided comments regarding the new charges against Lang. His attorney, James Thomas Ryan, also declined to comment on the matter.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Lang's actions and the pardoning of January 6 rioters argue that such statements and behaviors reflect a continued threat to public safety and undermine the rule of law. The violent rhetoric employed by Lang raises concerns about the potential for further violence from individuals who feel emboldened by previous pardons.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Lang's threats have been documented and reported, there is no indication of how the legal proceedings will unfold or the potential implications for similar cases involving other January 6 participants. The absence of comments from the U.S. Attorney’s Office leaves questions about the broader legal strategy in addressing threats made by individuals associated with the Capitol riot.
