"Trump's Pledge to Release Jan. 6 Rioters Accused of Attacking Police Sparks Outrage"

Former President Donald Trump has repeatedly referred to the Jan. 6 rioters as "hostages" and "unbelievable patriots" who are being mistreated by the justice system. However, an NBC News review found that just 15 people charged in connection with the Capitol attack are currently being held pretrial at the order of federal judges. These individuals face serious charges, including assaulting law enforcement, firing a gun, plotting to murder FBI employees, and more. Despite Trump's defense of the incarcerated Jan. 6 defendants, the overwhelming majority of those charged have been released before trial, with more than 950 convictions secured by prosecutors.