Ashli Babbitt's family receives $5M settlement in shooting case

The family of Ashli Babbitt, who was shot and killed during the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, has reached a settlement with the Trump administration, totaling approximately $5 million.

This agreement has sparked criticism from various parties, especially among law enforcement, who express concerns regarding its consequences for future police actions relating to the riot.

Ashli Babbitt, a supporter of former President Donald Trump, was shot by U.S. Capitol Police Lt. Michael Byrd as she attempted to breach the Speaker's Lobby by climbing through a broken window.

Legal justification for police response

In 2021, the Department of Justice concluded that Babbitt’s shooting by Lt. Byrd was justified. Their investigation found no evidence of wrongdoing by Byrd or any other officers.

Following an internal review, Lt. Byrd was cleared of any misconduct as his actions were deemed to be in self-defense and necessary to protect elected officials.

The settlement figure agreed upon was significantly lower than Babbitt's family's initial claim of $30 million, but it has nevertheless caused a stir among law enforcement personnel.

Dissatisfaction within law enforcement

Tom Manger, the outgoing US Capitol Police Chief, expressed deep dismay over the Justice Department's decision to settle, stating his disagreement with the decision to compensate Babbitt’s family.

Manger highlighted the DOJ's past investigation, asserting, "In 2021, the DOJ said that there was no evidence to show that law enforcement broke the law. After a thorough investigation, it was determined to be a justified shooting."

Manger stressed that this settlement sends a concerning "chilling message" to police officers nationwide, especially those whose duties involve protective missions.

Background of Capitol riot

The Capitol riot on January 6, 2021, drew attention as more than 140 officers were reportedly assaulted when demonstrators protested former President Trump's 2020 election defeat to Joe Biden.

During the riot, some think that Trump supporters attempted to disrupt the certification of the electoral college results. Babbitt's death occurred during these chaotic scenes as she was shot while trying to enter a restricted area.

Former President Trump has been vocal in his support for Babbitt, referring to her as a hero and advocating leniency for those involved in the riot.

Legal and political reactions

Babbitt's family accused Lt. Byrd of negligence and inadequate attempts at de-escalation before the shooting. Byrd's attorney, Mark Schamel, defended his client’s actions by citing recent Supreme Court rulings on officer use of force.

Schamel noted that Byrd performed his duty to protect elected officials, acting appropriately given the circumstances he faced that day.

Following his inauguration, Trump issued pardons to over 1,500 individuals involved in the Capitol unrest. He also dismissed prosecutors related to the cases, signaling his administration's stance on the issue.

Future implications and criticisms

The decision to settle has raised questions about potential repercussions for future law enforcement activities in similar situations. There are concerns about accountability and the message conveyed by the settlement.

In a controversial move, the Trump administration has also pushed for the removal of FBI agents' identities who conducted the riot investigation and the erasure of related material from DOJ websites.

As the discussion continues, the settlement with Babbitt’s family illustrates the ongoing complexities surrounding the Capitol riot and its legal aftermath, highlighting divides in public opinion and law enforcement perspectives.