A New York man who had his conviction from the January 6, 2021 U.S. Capitol riot erased through a presidential pardon this year has now admitted guilt in a separate criminal case after threatening to kill House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. The plea deal marks another chapter in the legal aftermath for individuals linked to that infamous event.
Pardoned Rioter Enters Guilty Plea in New Harassment Charge
Christopher P. Moynihan, 35, of Pleasant Valley, New York, acknowledged wrongdoing Thursday in a state court in Clinton, agreeing to a misdemeanor harassment charge tied to threatening messages about Jeffries’ safety ahead of the Democratic leader’s scheduled appearance. Under terms of the plea deal, Moynihan is set to be sentenced in April and faces a probation period as part of the resolution.
Prosecutors said the text messages sent in October expressed violent intentions that caused fear of imminent harm toward Jeffries, who serves as the House Minority Leader. Originally facing more serious charges including making a terroristic threat, Moynihan opted for a lesser offense in his guilty plea.
Background: 2021 Capitol Riot and Pardons Still Echoing
Moynihan was among hundreds of supporters of former President Donald Trump charged in connection with the January 6 assault on the U.S. Capitol, an effort by extremists to block certification of the 2020 presidential election results. He previously served nearly two years in prison after pleading guilty to obstructing an official proceeding and other charges before being granted a pardon in January 2025 when Trump returned to office.
Dutchess County District Attorney Anthony Parisi emphasized that violent threats against elected officials are criminal offences that undermine democratic stability, stating such conduct cannot be excused as political commentary.
What This Case Signals for Post-Pardon Accountability
While pardons removed Moynihan’s earlier conviction, this case highlights that authorities can still pursue legal action for separate criminal acts unrelated to the Capitol breach. The plea agreement and upcoming sentencing show that public safety laws continue to apply, even for those previously pardoned for political violence.
