DOJ Official Fired After Refusing to Restore Mel Gibson’s Gun Rights

Elizabeth G. Oyer alleges her dismissal followed pressure to approve gun rights restoration for the actor, citing his connection to President Trump.

Elizabeth G. Oyer, the DOJ's pardon attorney, claims she was fired after refusing to recommend restoring Mel Gibson's gun rights, revoked following a 2011 domestic violence conviction.
Oyer stated she faced pressure from senior DOJ officials, who cited Gibson's personal relationship with President Trump as justification for the recommendation.
Gibson's lawyer petitioned for the restoration in January, referencing his appointment by Trump as a 'Hollywood ambassador' and his film career success.
Oyer expressed ethical concerns about restoring gun rights to individuals with domestic violence histories, emphasizing public safety risks.
The Justice Department denies the firing was related to the Gibson case, but Oyer and others highlight a broader pattern of political influence affecting DOJ decisions.