Last week, President Trump granted clemency to over two dozen individuals, including Scott Jenkins, a former sheriff from Virginia. Jenkins was facing a 10-year prison sentence for bribery. Trump took to Truth Social to express his support for Jenkins, calling him a victim of persecution by the "radical left."
In Culpeper County, where Jenkins served as sheriff for twelve years, reactions to the pardon were largely negative. At the Frost Cafe, locals expressed their disbelief and disappointment. Ken Green, a retired entrepreneur and Trump supporter, criticized the pardon, saying it undermines the justice system. He remarked, "He was guilty as could be. He needed to go to jail, and he didn’t."
John Cook, who also voted for Trump, was stunned by the decision. He questioned how Trump could know Jenkins, given his distance from Culpeper, while Gordon Clore, a retired salesman who did not support Trump, noted that he hadn’t found anyone in favor of the pardon.
Jenkins was convicted last year for selling auxiliary deputy badges to businessmen in exchange for cash and campaign contributions. Prosecutors presented evidence showing him taking bribes, which led to a quick conviction by a jury. Despite this, Jenkins claimed he was targeted by the Biden administration for his political views, including his plans to investigate Hunter Biden’s laptop and his stance against gun control.
Roger Stone, a close Trump ally, played a role in Jenkins’ pardon. He mentioned on his podcast that he and others had urged Trump to grant Jenkins clemency, suggesting that Jenkins was unfairly treated by the justice system.
Local residents shared their concerns about the implications of the pardon. Shelly Tutt, who did not vote for Trump, expressed discomfort with the idea of a president pardoning a convicted felon while others faced detention without charge. She remarked, "It’s just not right. It’s like gangsters running the country."
After his indictment, Jenkins attempted to run for a fourth term as sheriff but only secured 20% of the vote. Many in Culpeper noted that he has not been seen around town much since his legal troubles began. As Trump continues to attract attention with his controversial decisions, the community is left grappling with the consequences of this high-profile pardon.