A significant change in leadership looms over the U.S. Capitol Police Department as Chief J. Thomas Manger prepares for retirement.
According to The Hill, Manger, who assumed leadership of the Capitol Police following the January 6 attack, will conclude his service on May 2 after serving more than four decades in law enforcement.
The announcement comes at a crucial time for the department, which has undergone substantial reforms and improvements under Manger's leadership. During his tenure, the department successfully implemented all 103 recommendations made by the Office of Inspector General following the January 6 attack, secured budget increases, and enhanced recruitment efforts.
Transformative leadership after Capitol attack
Manger's appointment as Capitol Police chief in July 2021 marked a pivotal moment for the department. The aftermath of the January 6 attack left deep scars, with more than 100 police officers injured during the riot. The tragic toll continued as four officers died by suicide in the days and months following the attack, while another Capitol Police officer succumbed to a stroke one day after sustaining injuries during the breach.
Before taking the helm at Capitol Police, Manger built an impressive career in law enforcement. His experience includes serving as the head of the Montgomery County Police in Maryland, demonstrating his extensive background in police leadership and administration.
In a statement reflecting on his tenure, Manger said:
When I took the oath of office in the summer of 2021 — I could not have imagined the progress a police department of our size could make in just a few years. We made these changes to this Department because of the work ethic and dedication of our entire workforce, as well as the support of our Congressional stakeholders.
Controversial stance on January 6 pardons
In early January 2025, Manger addressed the contentious issue of pardons for January 6 rioters. His comments came shortly before President Trump issued approximately 1,500 "full, complete and unconditional pardons" to defendants involved in the Capitol attack.
Expressing concern about the message such pardons might send, Manger stated:
What message does that send to police officers across this nation, if someone doesn't think that a conviction for an assault or worse against a police officer is something that should be upheld, given what we ask police officers to do every day.
The chief's remarks highlighted the complex relationship between law enforcement accountability and political decisions affecting the justice system. His statement reflected the broader tensions surrounding the aftermath of January 6 and its impact on police morale.
Notable achievements and lasting impact
Throughout his 46-year career in law enforcement, Manger demonstrated exceptional leadership abilities across multiple jurisdictions. His extensive experience includes more than 24 years as a police chief, serving in Montgomery County Police, Fairfax County Police in Virginia, and ultimately the U.S. Capitol Police.
Under his guidance, the Capitol Police Department underwent significant modernization and improvement. The implementation of security reforms and operational changes strengthened the department's capabilities and readiness for future challenges.
The department's transformation under Manger's leadership established new standards for security protocols and organizational efficiency. These improvements will continue to influence the department's operations long after his departure.
Transition marks end of distinguished service
J. Thomas Manger concludes his remarkable law enforcement career after serving as Capitol Police chief since July 2021. His retirement follows the successful implementation of crucial reforms within the department, including expanded hiring initiatives and improved security measures following the January 6 attack. The department now begins its search for new leadership to build upon Manger's achievements and continue advancing its critical mission of protecting the U.S. Capitol complex and its occupants.
