FBI strategy memo on election violence raises questions about double standard between J6, BLM riots

 An FBI memo have highlighted significant differences in how the FBI and justice system handled violence during the Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests in 2020 compared to the events of January 6, 2021, at the U. S. Capitol. This has raised serious concerns about potential biases in federal prosecutions and the overall integrity of the justice system.

1. FBI Preparedness and Warnings:

• Before the 2020 presidential election, the FBI warned that violence could occur due to disputes over election results, making no distinction between left-wing and right-wing groups in their recommendations.

• The Boston FBI office conducted a tabletop exercise and gathered intelligence on various groups, advocating for proactive measures to prevent potential violence through undercover work and vigorous prosecutions.

2. Differing Outcomes in Prosecutions:

• Data shows that 90% of individuals arrested during the 2020 BLM protests faced no prosecution, with many charges dropped by local governments. For instance, in Houston and Philadelphia, overwhelming percentages of cases were dismissed.

• In stark contrast, around 1,500 people were charged in relation to the Capitol riot, with 84.6% leading to convictions, as federal prosecutors aggressively pursued cases against those involved.

3. Use of Controversial Statutes:

• The legal strategies employed during the prosecutions of Capitol rioters included the use of a contentious statute concerning obstructing official proceedings. This statute, criticized as evidence of a double standard, was later invalidated by the Supreme Court.

4. Impacts on Public Trust:

• Mark Morgan, a former FBI official, expressed concerns that perceived injustices and double standards, especially amid political biases, undermine public trust in the justice system.

• Complaints from inside the FBI suggested that agents felt they were caught in a political battle, failing to ensure fair treatment across politically charged situations.

5. Comparisons of Damages and Responses:

• Former Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund highlighted that the damage and violence during the BLM protests were comparable to those of January 6. He criticized the lack of consequences for many involved in the previous protests.

6. Calls for Equal Treatment:

• FBI insiders have urged the bureau to clarify its commitment to impartiality in investigations and prosecutions, insisting that all criminal activities be addressed regardless of the offenders' political affiliations or motivations.

The discrepancies in how the FBI and the justice system dealt with the BLM protests and the Capitol riot have prompted questions about fairness and bias. The findings from the FBI memo and reactions from law enforcement officials suggest a need for more accountability and uniformity in addressing protests and related criminal activities, reflecting a broader concern about maintaining public trust in the justice system. 

https://justthenews.com/government/federal-agencies/fbi-memo-preparing-political-violence-raises-questions-about-double