Trump Pardons Ex-Sheriff Jenkins in Bribery Case | NBC4 Washington
President Trump pardoned ex-Sheriff Scott Jenkins, ending his ten-year prison sentence for a “bribes for badges” scheme. The ex-Sheriff, convicted in December, faced charges after a jury found him guilty of accepting payments in exchange for deputy badges.The evidence presented during the trial, including photos and videos, allegedly showed Jenkins accepting cash and checks, allowing individuals to carry firearms. Jenkins maintained his innocence, claiming the charges were politically motivated. Discover what News Directory 3 has to say about the FBI’s inquiry and analysis of Jenkins’ finances. Delve deeper and find out what the federal judge stated during sentencing, and learn what’s next for the convicted Jenkins.
trump Pardons Ex-Sheriff Scott Jenkins in Bribes-for-Badges Case
Updated May 27, 2025
Former culpeper County Sheriff Scott Jenkins, convicted in a “bribes for badges” scheme, received a pardon from President Trump just before he was scheduled to report to federal prison. Jenkins was found guilty by a jury in December and sentenced to 10 years.
Jenkins maintained his innocence after the conviction, claiming he was targeted by the Biden administration for his support of the Second Amendment. He asserted that his willingness to deputize many people to circumvent potential gun restrictions lead to the charges.
Evidence presented at trial included photos and videos allegedly showing Jenkins accepting cash and checks in exchange for deputy badges, which allowed individuals to carry firearms. Prosecutors stated that those who received badges lacked proper training and performed little to no work for the sheriff’s office. These payments ranged from $5,000 to $20,000.
recordings played during the trial captured Jenkins discussing payments with an FBI informant, including Rick Rahim, a convicted felon who Jenkins deputized and helped regain his gun rights. Rahim was among three individuals who pleaded guilty to bribing Jenkins. An FBI analysis of Jenkins’ finances suggested he was spending beyond his means, with campaign contributions allegedly diverted to personal accounts.
The jury determined you are a criminal. you sold badges to wealthy men who thought thay were above the law. Your actions undermined the public trust.
These were the words of the federal judge during Jenkins’ sentencing.
What’s next
with the pardon granted, Jenkins will avoid serving his 10-year prison sentence. His appeals lawyer did not respond to requests for comment.