An Indiana man recently pardoned by President Donald Trump for his participation in the January 6, 2021, Capitol breach was fatally shot by law enforcement during a traffic stop.
Matthew Huttle, 42, of Hobart, was on Sunday afternoon near the Jasper and Pulaski County line after an encounter with a sheriff’s deputy. According to the Indiana State Police, Huttle was pulled over on State Road 14 at approximately 4:15 p.m. by a Jasper County Sheriff’s deputy. The situation escalated when the deputy attempted to place Huttle under arrest.
While details remain unclear, authorities report that Huttle resisted arrest, leading to a physical struggle. During the altercation, the deputy discharged his firearm, fatally wounding Huttle.
Investigation and Law Enforcement Response
The Indiana State Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting, which is standard protocol in officer-involved fatalities. As of now, officials have not disclosed the reason behind the attempted arrest or the specific events that led to the fatal use of force.
A statement released by law enforcement confirmed that Huttle was armed at the time of the traffic stop. However, authorities have not provided further clarification on whether he brandished or attempted to use the weapon.
“An altercation took place between the suspect and the officer, which resulted in the officer firing his weapon and fatally wounding the suspect,” the Indiana State Police said in a press release.
Jasper County Sheriff Patrick Williamson also addressed the incident, confirming that the deputy involved in the shooting has been placed on paid administrative leave in accordance with department policy.
“Our condolences go out to the family of the deceased, as any loss of life is traumatic to those who were close to Mr. Huttle,” Williamson stated. “I will release the officer’s name once I have approval from the State Police Detectives.”
Huttle’s Background and January 6 Involvement
Huttle was one of the over 1,500 individuals granted clemency by President Trump on January 20, following his return to office. His pardon cleared a federal misdemeanor conviction linked to his participation in the U.S. Capitol breach.
Court records indicate that Huttle was arrested alongside his uncle, Dale Huttle of Crown Point, for their roles in the January 6 riot. According to the FBI, he was inside the Capitol for approximately 10 minutes but remained on the grounds for several hours.
Following the attack, Huttle was apprehended in Boise, Idaho, and later convicted of federal charges. He was sentenced to six months in prison, followed by 12 months of supervised release. His incarceration concluded on July 17, 2024.
During his legal proceedings, prosecutors noted that Huttle did not express remorse for his actions. His uncle, Dale Huttle, publicly stated, “I have no regrets. I will not say I’m sorry,” regarding their participation in the Capitol breach.
Attorney’s Reaction and Public Response
Nicholas Barnes, an attorney who represented Huttle for nearly a decade in various legal matters, including traffic and alcohol-related offenses, expressed shock at his client’s involvement in the Capitol riot. He also voiced concern over the circumstances of Huttle’s death.
“To my knowledge, Matthew was a nonviolent individual, so I know the Indiana State Police are investigating the encounter, and I will be very interested to read their findings,” Barnes said in an interview.
The case has drawn national attention, particularly in light of Trump’s mass pardons for January 6 participants. The former president’s clemency orders included both full pardons and commutations for those convicted of seditious conspiracy. While Trump and his supporters have framed these actions as justice for politically persecuted individuals, critics argue that the pardons undermine accountability for those who participated in the attack on the Capitol.
Ongoing Investigation
As authorities continue to examine the details of the fatal traffic stop, many questions remain unanswered. Investigators are expected to review body camera footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence to determine whether the use of force was justified.
For now, Huttle’s death adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing discourse surrounding the events of January 6 and the legal and political ramifications for those involved. The results of the official investigation will likely shape the broader conversation about law enforcement procedures, pardons, and the consequences of the Capitol riot.