Former FBI Agent Jared Wise's Controversial Role in the Capitol Riot and Current Justice Department Position
A former FBI special agent and current Justice Department official, Jared Wise, was captured on video encouraging fellow protesters on January 6, 2021, to "kill" police officers during the Capitol riot. Wise admitted to shouting these words while witnessing officers being attacked on the Capitol grounds. He had entered the Capitol building through a forced-open door and later returned outside, where he remained for several hours as the protest continued. Wise was seen berating cops and urging others in the crowd to harm them, using derogatory terms like "Nazi" and "Gestapo."
The police bodycam footage shared by NPR showed Wise's behavior towards law enforcement officers during the riot. Wise faced charges of civil disorder, disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds, and aiding and abetting an assault on law enforcement officers. During his trial, Wise acknowledged that his words were inappropriate and fueled by anger, stating that he should not have used such language. He claimed that his actions were a reaction to what he perceived as police brutality.
While Wise did not physically assault any officers, he expressed that he believed he would have been morally justified in doing so to stop what he viewed as police brutality. Wise admitted that his decision to enter the Capitol was irrational and acknowledged that he was aware he was not allowed to do so. He served in the FBI from 2004 to 2017, focusing on international counterterrorism and rising to the position of supervisory special agent.
Wise's defense team argued that his statements were protected by the First Amendment and claimed that there was no evidence that anyone in the skirmish heard and acted upon his words. Following President Donald Trump's return to office in January 2025, all defendants from the January 6, 2021 riot with ongoing cases had their charges dismissed. Wise currently works as a senior adviser in the office of the deputy attorney general, focusing on combating the "weaponization" of law enforcement.
Despite criticism from federal prosecutor Greg Rosen, who led the DOJ's "Capitol Siege Section," the Justice Department defended Wise's role, stating that he is a valued member of the team. Rosen expressed concern over the DOJ's decision to hire Wise, citing his alleged participation in the riot and encouragement of violence against police officers. Jared Wise's actions and statements during the Capitol riot have sparked controversy and raised questions about his role within the Justice Department.