Internal emails reveal that Lt. Michael Byrd, the officer who fatally shot unarmed protester Ashli Babbitt on Jan. 6, 2021, received extraordinary benefits after pressure from Democratic lawmakers. The benefits Byrd received far exceeded those provided to other officers, sparking criticism of political favoritism within the Capitol Police.
Byrd was given a $37,000 retention bonus, home security upgrades costing $21,899, and support through a GoFundMe campaign that raised $164,000. These perks came after aides to Democratic leaders, including then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), advocated for Byrd’s treatment.
Emails reveal Byrd expressed dissatisfaction with the assistance, complaining about delays and accusing the Capitol Police of treating him unfairly. “This is blatantly wrong to treat us like this,” Byrd wrote, suggesting he deserved more than other officers.
Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-GA) has called attention to the unequal treatment, stating, “Officers on the front lines received far less, while Byrd was given extraordinary support. This raises serious questions about fairness.” Loudermilk also criticized Byrd’s promotion to captain in 2023, highlighting his disciplinary record and questioning his fitness for the role.
The case has drawn attention to the stark contrast in how Democrats respond to police shootings based on the victim. While Democrats often denounce law enforcement when unarmed Black individuals are involved, they defended Byrd’s actions against Babbitt, a White Trump supporter. This inconsistency has fueled accusations of politicizing law enforcement.
The revelations have sparked calls for accountability and intensified scrutiny of the Capitol Police’s decision-making and the political influence that shaped Byrd’s treatment.
