Former police officer Michael Fanone, a key figure in the January 6, 2021, US Capitol riot, has been criminally referred on at least six counts by prominent J6 activist Ivan Raiklin. The referral, submitted to acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and Attorney General for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro on June 29, 2026, alleges Fanone committed various violations, including making false statements to Congress, obstruction of official proceedings on Capitol grounds, and assaulting certain officers and employees.
The alleged infractions date back to Fanone's behavior at a House Judiciary hearing on January 22, 2026, where he got into a verbal altercation with Raiklin and made false statements about him in front of law enforcement. Raiklin, who is also facing a defamation lawsuit against Fanone, claims that the former police officer's actions warrant a federal investigation and potential prosecution.
According to Raiklin, the referral includes counts of making false statements, obstruction of official proceedings, assaulting and impeding certain officers and employees, and unlawful activities on Capitol grounds. Raiklin is sending the referral to members of Congress and the DOJ, including Todd Blanche, Janine Pirro, and the head of the criminal division at the Department of Justice.
Fanone's credibility has been called into question following the referral, with some politicians speaking out against him. Representative Troy Nehls, for example, described Fanone as "unstable" and "garbage" who "doesn't speak the truth very often." Nehls also highlighted Fanone's alleged misconduct during the January 6 riot, including his use of profanity during a hearing.
Representative Seth Moulton, on the other hand, expressed a different view, stating that those involved in the Capitol riot, including Fanone, should face consequences for their actions. Moulton argued that those who attempted to overthrow the government and harm law enforcement should not receive compensation or benefits.
Fanone has a history of controversy, having previously testified to Congress about his experience during the Capitol riot. However, his obstructive behavior and threatening demeanor towards Raiklin have now led to a defamation lawsuit and a criminal referral to the DOJ. As a result, his claims about his experience on January 6, 2021, are being scrutinized and questioned.
