Ashli Babbitt Case SETTLED – DOJ Keeps Deal Secret!

Daily Report May 03,2025

The US Justice Department seeks to quietly close the Ashli Babbitt wrongful death lawsuit with a settlement that remains shrouded in confidentiality.

At a Glance

Agreement in principle reached between Department of Justice and Babbitt’s family.
Ashli Babbitt shot during January 6 Capitol riot by a Capitol Police officer.
Officer involved was cleared of misconduct after internal review.
Details of the settlement not disclosed.

The Controversial Settlement

The Department of Justice has reached a preliminary agreement to settle the wrongful death lawsuit brought by Ashli Babbitt’s family against the federal government. Babbitt was shot and killed by Capitol Police Officer Michael Byrd while trying to enter the Speaker’s Lobby during the Capitol riots on January 6, 2021. Despite heated debates, investigations concluded that the officer acted in self-defense, exonerating him of any wrongdoing. However, the terms of the settlement remain undisclosed at this moment.

Watch coverage here.

This lawsuit originally sought a staggering $30 million, accusing Byrd of failing to issue any warning before resorting to lethal force. The family of Babbitt accused the officer of negligence, suggesting he exhibited a tendency for dangerous behavior. Nevertheless, the internal reviews and the inquiry by the U.S. Attorney’s Office found Byrd’s actions justified in protecting lawmakers within the Capitol.

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Political Undercurrents

The lawsuit holds substantial political weight, bringing to light the disputed actions of law enforcement and their accountability during crises. Former President Donald Trump labeled the shooting as “murder” and expressed his support for Babbitt’s family. Although initially unaware of the suit’s particulars, Trump advocated for a deeper examination, reflecting the strong political backdrop that permeates the case.

“Ashli posed no threat to the safety of anyone” – lawsuit.

Despite this, Officer Byrd claimed he fired as a “last resort” and that he was uncertain if Babbitt was armed, heightening the tension surrounding this tragic event. The Capitol Police stood by Byrd, confirming that his deadly decision was driven purely by the immediate threat posed during the breaching attempt, though the public’s assessment remains split on the true necessity of such actions.

Ongoing Debate

The case has stirred ongoing debates regarding law enforcement’s use of force and their duty to protect public spaces while respecting individual rights. This latest settlement, while quieting one legal battle, doesn’t dispel the broader question of how to balance security measures with personal freedoms— a question that continues to evoke heated discourse in America. As Babbitt’s family is set to formalize the settlement, all eyes are on the evolving interpretations of justice and protection in tumultuous scenarios.

“last resort” – Capitol Police officer.

As this case closes, perhaps temporarily, citizens and lawmakers alike need to consider the intricate balance of security protocols and individual rights. Undoubtedly, this settlement will feed into the growing discourse on law enforcement accountability and the scrutiny of police actions, justifying the need for transparency and dialogue within our democracy.