Matrix stirs up trouble by announcing it sells encrypted messages, but some users misinterpret the toot to mean it sells Their messages

this title is inaccurate. Element posted it, not Matrix. they're two separate entities, both legally and in governance. second, they sell encrypted messaging to governments and police, not messages

I think you interpreted Element's comment incorrectly.

They sell messaging services to police and government. They aren't saying they sell your messages to police and gov't here.

If your ethics convey you to avoid using services that have any involvement or benefit to police/gov't, you can choose not to use Element's services.