Trump administration agrees to pay $5 million for Ashli Babbitt's death
- Ashli Babbitt was fatally shot by Capitol Police while breaching the Capitol during the January 6 riot.
- The settlement resolves a $30 million lawsuit filed by her family after investigations cleared the officer of wrongdoing.
- This settlement raises concerns among law enforcement about its implications for police conduct in similar situations.
In the United States, the Trump administration has reached a settlement of almost $5 million with the family of Ashli Babbitt, following her fatal shooting during the January 6, 2021 Capitol Riot. Babbitt was part of a mob that stormed the Capitol, attempting to disrupt the certification of Joe Biden's presidential victory. The lawsuit, initially filed for $30 million, alleged negligence by the U.S. Capitol Police officer who shot Babbitt, claiming that she posed no threat at the time of the incident. The settlement, which was announced after both parties confirmed it during a court hearing, does not require the Justice Department to admit any wrongdoing or change its earlier determination that the officer acted in self-defense. In 2021, investigations by the Department of Justice and the Capitol Police cleared the officer, stating that his actions were justified, as he believed Babbitt represented a real danger to the safety of members of Congress. The settlement marked a significant resolution to a case that had drawn national attention and controversy. Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger publicly voiced his disappointment about the settlement, arguing that it undermines the department’s position concerning law enforcement's responsibility during violent confrontations. Following the shooting, Babbitt’s family claimed that her unarmed status and lack of threat contradicted the officer's decision to open fire. Manger's assertion reflects a broader frustration within law enforcement regarding the implications this settlement could have for police operations nationwide. The incident that led to this legal battle occurred amid widespread chaos, as rioters attempted to overturn the election results, and several other individuals were injured during the event. As part of his response to the Capitol Riot, former President Donald Trump had previously pardoned numerous individuals involved, further complicating the public and judicial scrutiny surrounding the events of January 6. This case illustrates the ongoing tension in understanding law enforcement actions during such crises and the implications for policy and reform efforts in the future.