Trump eyes pardon for Arpaio; critics mad

PHOENIX  — President Donald Trump says he may grant a pardon to former Sheriff Joe Arpaio following his recent conviction in federal court, prompting outrage among critics who say the move would amount to an endorsement of racism.

Trump told Fox News during an interview Sunday that he was seriously considering issuing a pardon within the next few days. That was welcome news for the former Phoenix-area sheriff, who lost a re-election bid in November and who was convicted of misdemeanor contempt of court on July 31.

But it angered immigrant rights activists and others who say it amounts to support for racism on the same day that Trump disavowed white nationalists whose rally in Charlottesville, Va., turned violent this weekend, leaving one woman dead.

A federal judge ruled in 2013 that Arpaio’s officers racially profiled Latinos. But the sheriff refused to stop his immigration patrols, eventually leading to the criminal contempt of court case that he’s embroiled in. It also contributed to his failed re-election bid last year.

Arpaio said Monday that he learned of Trump’s comments in the morning and was glad he stood by him.

“I didn’t ask for it, but if he’s going to offer, I will accept, because I’m not guilty. So appreciate his interest in my matter here in Phoenix,” Arpaio said.

Mark Goldman, his attorney, said he was filing two motions Monday for a judgment of acquittal and to vacate the verdict for a new trial. The motions are not appeals.