Andrew Paul Johnson, a 44-year-old Florida man who gained national attention after being pardoned for his role in the January 6 Capitol riot, has been found guilty of multiple counts of child sexual abuse.
On February 10, 2026, a jury in Hernando County delivered the verdict following a disturbing trial that exposed how Johnson allegedly used his status as a "pardoned patriot" to manipulate his victims.
**The Conviction and Abuse Details
The jury found Johnson guilty of five charges, including the molestation of a child under 12 and another under 16, as well as lewd and lascivious exhibition.
According to court records and police affidavits, the abuse occurred between April and October 2024.
The prosecution presented evidence that Johnson used his federal pardon to create a sense of untouchable authority and wealth.
Most shockingly, police reports indicate that Johnson attempted to silence an 11-year-old victim by claiming he was being awarded $10 million in restitution from the Trump administration for his time as a "Jan 6er."
He reportedly promised to put the child in his will to ensure the abuse remained a secret.
From Capitol Riot to Criminal Conviction
Johnson’s legal history is a winding path of federal leniency followed by state-level crimes:
- The Riot: On January 6, 2021, Johnson was filmed climbing through a broken window into the U.S. Capitol. He later referred to himself on social media as an "American Terrorist" and a "Proud J6er."
- The Pardon: After pleading guilty to federal charges in 2024, Johnson was sentenced to a year in prison. However, he was released early in 2025 as part of a sweeping presidential pardon that cleared approximately 1,500 Jan. 6 defendants.
- The New Crimes: The Florida abuse investigation began shortly after his pardon, while Johnson was living with his girlfriend and her children.
National Security and Vetting Concerns
Johnson is not the first pardoned Jan. 6 defendant to face serious new charges.
Since the mass pardons of 2025, several individuals have been rearrested for crimes ranging from federal weapons violations to the possession of child sexual abuse material.
Walter Forgie, the chief assistant state attorney for Florida’s Fifth Judicial Circuit, confirmed that Johnson now faces up to life in prison. His sentencing is officially scheduled for March 2026.
While supporters of the rioters have continued to lobby for the $10 million payouts Johnson claimed were coming, the White House has not confirmed any plans for financial compensation for former defendants.