President Donald Trump has pardoned former Culpeper County Sheriff Scott Jenkins, who was sentenced earlier this year to 10 years in federal prison on bribery charges. Jenkins was convicted in December 2024 for running a “cash-for-badges” scheme, where he accepted over $75,000 in bribes in exchange for deputizing individuals, including undercover FBI agents posing as donors.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said Jenkins “will NOT be going to jail tomorrow,” calling him a “victim of an overzealous Biden Department of Justice” and blaming “corrupt” judges for allegedly ignoring exculpatory evidence. Trump added that Jenkins “doesn’t deserve to spend a single day in jail” and should instead have a “wonderful and productive life.”
Federal prosecutors accused Jenkins of selling deputy badges to individuals seeking special privileges, including concealed carry rights. Two undercover FBI agents testified that they handed Jenkins cash in exchange for appointments as auxiliary deputies.
Jenkins was convicted of conspiracy, honest services fraud, and multiple counts of bribery. His co-defendants also pleaded guilty in the case. Acting U.S. Attorney Zachary T. Lee said Jenkins had “violated his oath of office and the faith the citizens of Culpeper County placed in him.”
Trump’s pardon of Jenkins is viewed by many as a reward for loyalty. Jenkins had been a vocal supporter of Trump, serving as a campaign surrogate and attending events at the White House during Trump’s first term. Critics argue the pardon sends the wrong message about accountability in law enforcement.
Jenkins’ pardon is part of a broader pattern by Trump, who has frequently granted clemency to political allies and those he believes were unfairly targeted by federal prosecutors.
Trump’s decision to pardon Jenkins is likely to stir political controversy, as it mirrors his past actions in granting clemency to allies and supporters. Critics argue the pardon undermines the rule of law by excusing corruption in public office, while supporters see it as a stand against what they describe as politically motivated prosecutions by the Biden administration’s Department of Justice. As the 2024 election cycle heats up, the move adds another chapter to Trump’s narrative of fighting back against what he calls a “rigged” system targeting his allies.
