Following the **January 6, 2021** Capitol attack, the **FBI began investigating** possible connections between **Donald Trump** and the Proud Boys.
Despite extensive efforts, no **direct criminal links** between Trump and the events of that day were found, leading critics to label 2021 as a **lost year** for the DOJ.
Under **Attorney General Merrick Garland**, the DOJ faced criticism for its **investigative pace**, with some believing they mismanaged the political timeline for prosecution.
Ultimately, the **indictment against Trump** was delayed until **August 2023**, with legal complexities causing further setbacks.
After Trump's reelection, DOJ officials concluded that their efforts were undermined by **political dynamics**, leading to an **abandonment of the case** before potential prosecution.