I think that is the rung of HELL that even Dante didn't descend. Remember THIS pardon? He did it for spite.
Trump pardons former Sheriff Joe Arpaio
By Kevin Liptak, Daniella Diaz and Sophie Tatum, CNN
Arpaio continued: "I am humbled and incredibly grateful to President Trump. I look fwd to putting this chapter behind me and helping to #MAGA"
He said in a Fox News interview Friday that he would hold a news conference early next week to discuss the pardon.
Trump did not consult Justice Department
The pardon is the first of Trump's presidency, though he did not follow his predecessors' practice of consulting with lawyers at the Justice Department before announcing his decision.
"This is the President's pardon," a source with knowledge of the decision said.
Under the Constitution, Trump is permitted wide leeway in issuing pardons. There are no requirements for consultation within the administration before a decision is announced.
"The President exercised his lawful authority and we respect his decision," said Ian Prior, a Justice Department spokesman.
Trump hinted at his decision earlier this week during a raucous campaign rally in Phoenix.
"So was Sheriff Joe was convicted for doing his job?" Trump queried his supporters. "I'll make a prediction. I think he's going to be just fine, OK."
Trump tweeted Friday night about his decision: "I am pleased to inform you that I have just granted a full Pardon to 85 year old American patriot Sheriff Joe Arpaio. He kept Arizona safe!"
Groups criticize decision
Arpaio, who was sheriff in Maricopa County, Arizona, until last year, was found guilty of criminal contempt last month for disregarding a court order in a racial-profiling case. His sentencing had been scheduled for October 5.
"Not only did (Arpaio) abdicate responsibility, he announced to the world and to his subordinates that he was going to continue business as usual no matter who said otherwise," US District Judge Susan Bolton wrote in a July 31 order finding him guilty.
