A federal judge has temporarily halted the Trump administration from establishing a $1.8 billion fund intended to compensate individuals who claim they were unjustly prosecuted by the government. This decision came after mixed signals from President Trump regarding the fund’s status.

Background

The case unfolded in the Federal District Court in Virginia, where Judge Leonie M. Brinkema made her ruling. The fund was initially proposed to compensate those who felt wronged by governmental actions, including participants in the January 6 Capitol riot prosecutions.

Contradictory Statements

Despite Todd Blanche, the acting attorney general, informing Congress that the fund would not proceed, President Trump has expressed support for the idea. He believes that those who suffered should receive financial recompense. Judge Brinkema voiced concerns over the president’s comments, suggesting they hinted at possible future revivals of the fund.

Judge’s Order and Conditions

Judge Brinkema stated that to lift her order, the Justice Department must provide a declaration, under penalty of perjury, confirming the fund’s cancellation. This declaration needs signatures from both Mr. Blanche and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

The decision extends a pause initially imposed at the end of May. It coincided with a separate case in Washington, where Judge Richard J. Leon declined to halt the fund.