A man who received a pardon from President Trump following the January 6th events is once again facing legal scrutiny after appearing near the home of Congressman Jamie Raskin.
Taylor Taranto, previously found guilty of making threats against Rep. Raskin and former President Barack Obama, was ordered by a judge to return to his home in Washington state. The judge is considering a request from prosecutors to detain Taranto, who was found to have illegally possessed guns and ammunition in his vehicle last year.
Reports indicate that Taranto was seen by local police near Raskin’s Maryland home. He had been living in his van and streaming online, describing himself as an “independent journalist.”
In the past, Taranto made headlines after entering an elementary school in Maryland while allegedly making threats against Raskin. Prosecutors stated that Taranto admitted to targeting the school because of its proximity to Raskin’s home, claiming he was sending a “shockwave” to the Congressman, whom he accused of disliking Trump supporters.
Prosecutors have expressed concern that Taranto’s return to the D.C. area and his recent behavior suggest he may be repeating actions that led to his prior charges. His attorney requested time to review the case and asked that Taranto be allowed to return home to his family.
Taranto has pledged to drive back to Washington state, and the judge has stated he is prepared to take him into custody if he violates any orders. A probation hearing is scheduled in Washington state for December 10th.
