Trump pardons Bernard Kerik later questioned in January 6 investigation

In February 2020, President Donald Trump issued a full pardon to Bernard Kerik, the former New York City police commissioner, who had been convicted in 2009 on federal tax fraud and false statement charges. The pardon restored Kerik’s civil rights and removed the remaining legal penalties associated with his conviction.

In 2021 and 2022, Kerik became a subject of interest in the federal investigation into efforts to overturn the 2020 U.S. presidential election. Court records and public testimony show that Kerik was questioned by federal investigators and later subpoenaed by the House Select Committee investigating the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack.

Kerik testified under oath that he was involved in efforts to review and challenge election results in several states. While he was not charged with a crime related to the investigation, his post-pardon involvement placed him back under federal scrutiny.