On Monday, Jan. 20, 2025, President Donald Trump, in one of his first official acts after being sworn in for a second term, issued pardons for approximately 1,500 individuals convicted in connection with the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.

Among those pardoned was Ethan Nordean, 32, of Auburn and Des Moines, a prominent member of the Proud Boys organization.

As The Waterland Blog previously reported, Nordean – the self-described “Sergeant-At-Arms” of the far right extremist group – is the son of Mike and Judy Nordean, owners of Wally’s Chowder House in Des Moines. He lived near Auburn and apparently worked at two of the restaurant’s regional locations, including Des Moines, prior to becoming more involved in the extremist group’s activities.

Nordean had been sentenced to 18 years in prison in September, 2023, after being convicted of seditious conspiracy and other charges related to his role in the Capitol breach. Prosecutors identified him as the “undisputed leader on the ground on Jan 6.”

President Trump’s mass pardon fulfills his longstanding promise to offer clemency to those he referred to as “political prisoners” and “hostages.” 

In addition to the pardons, he commuted the sentences of 14 individuals. 

The decision has sparked criticism from various quarters. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi described the pardons as “shameful,” reflecting a broader concern among critics about the implications for justice and accountability.

Ethan Nordean’s release is expected to have a significant impact on his hometown of Auburn, where community members have closely followed his case.

Local reactions are mixed, with some expressing relief at his release and others voicing apprehension about the message it sends regarding the events of January 6.

Read South King Media’s previous coverage about Nordean here.