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Trump Pardons Former Virginia Sheriff Scott Jenkins Convicted of Bribery

President Trump pardons Scott Jenkins, a former sheriff convicted of bribery, claiming he was a victim of political persecution by the Biden administration.

Overview

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President Trump has granted a full pardon to Scott Jenkins, a former sheriff of Culpeper County, Virginia, who was sentenced to 10 years for bribery. Jenkins, convicted in December 2024 for accepting over $75,000 in bribes to appoint businessmen as auxiliary deputies, maintained his innocence. Trump criticized the Biden administration's Justice Department, calling Jenkins a victim of political persecution. This pardon follows a series of clemencies granted by Trump to loyal supporters, including those involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. Jenkins, a conservative figure, had previously gained attention for his stances on gun rights and COVID-19 regulations.

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Analysis

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  • The articles criticize President Trump's decision to pardon Scott Jenkins, emphasizing the severity of Jenkins' crimes.
  • They express concern over the potential misuse of presidential power and its impact on the justice system.
  • Skepticism is raised about the motivations behind the pardon and the integrity of the judicial process.

Articles (8)

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Center (3)

"…Trump's comments suggest that Jenkins is a victim of a corrupt justice system, despite the serious charges he faced."

Trump says he's pardoning a Virginia sheriff convicted on bribery charges
Associated PressAssociated Press·1M·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.

"…Jenkins faced a jury trial in late 2024 but wasn't sentenced until March 2025 under the Trump administration."

Trump pardons Virginia sheriff convicted of federal bribery charges
ABC NewsABC News·1M·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.

FAQ

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Scott Jenkins was convicted of one count of conspiracy, four counts of honest services fraud, and seven counts of bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Jenkins accepted over $75,000 in bribes from businessmen in exchange for appointing them as auxiliary deputy sheriffs. He also used campaign contributions as part of the bribery scheme.

President Trump pardoned Scott Jenkins, claiming he was a victim of political persecution by the Biden administration, despite Jenkins' conviction for bribery.

History

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    5 articles