Don Rittner’s column: Why Alex Contompasis deserves Executive Clemency |
More than five years have passed since January 6, 2021, a date forever linked with one of the most divisive moments in modern American history. While the nation’s attention focused on the attack on the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., another violent confrontation unfolded hundreds of miles away outside the New York State Capitol in Albany during a “Stop the Steal” rally. It was there that Albany resident Alex Contompasis became involved in a violent altercation that ultimately resulted in his conviction and a lengthy prison sentence.
Today, a striking contradiction exists. Nearly all of the individuals convicted of federal crimes arising from the January 6 events at the U.S. Capitol have been released after President Donald Trump issued sweeping pardons and commutations in January 2025. Yet Alex Contompasis remains incarcerated in New York State.
Whether one agrees with his politics is not the issue. The real question is whether justice has been served and whether executive clemency is appropriate.
Supporters argue that Contompasis believed he was defending himself and others during a rapidly escalating confrontation involving members of the Proud Boys and counter-protesters. They contend that the circumstances were chaotic, emotions were high, and decisions had to be made in seconds rather........