A group of tax law professors is calling on President Joe Biden to commute the sentence of Charles Littlejohn, a former IRS contractor who leaked tax returns of Donald Trump and numerous wealthy individuals. These experts argue that Littlejohn's five-year sentence is excessive and that his actions served the public interest by exposing flaws in the tax system.
The professors, alongside advocacy groups like the Revolving Door Project and Patriotic Millionaires, are expressing concern for Littlejohn's well-being. They fear that he may face retribution if Donald Trump returns to office, as Trump has previously suggested pardoning individuals convicted in connection with the January 6th riot. These advocates argue it would be a perversion of justice if individuals involved in the riot are freed while Littlejohn remains imprisoned.
Littlejohn’s leaks, given to The New York Times and ProPublica, revealed that Trump paid minimal or no federal taxes for years and detailed how billionaires utilize tax loopholes to reduce their payments. These disclosures provided unprecedented public insight into the tax practices of the ultra-wealthy. While Littlejohn admitted to his actions and cooperated with investigators, Judge Ana Reyes handed him the maximum allowable sentence, citing similarities to the January 6th attacks.
This sentencing has sparked considerable debate, with Littlejohn’s supporters suggesting that political pressure played a role. Days before the sentencing, Republican members of the House Ways and Means Committee urged the judge to impose a harsh penalty. Senator Rick Scott, a Republican whose tax information was among those leaked, accused the Justice Department of being lenient. However, advocates for Littlejohn believe that his sentence is disproportionately severe compared to others who have committed similar offenses, leading to claims that his sentencing was influenced by the wealth of those whose information was disclosed.
With Littlejohn now pursuing an appeal to reduce his sentence, his supporters are also advocating for a presidential commutation. They emphasize that Littlejohn acted in the public interest and had nothing to gain personally, acting as a whistleblower. While it remains uncertain if the White House will take action, the urgency to secure his release before a potential change in administration is rising, with advocates likening his situation to other potential political figures seeking preemptive pardons from the current president.
