On the final day of federal court proceedings before Donald Trump's presidency concludes, a judge addressed a defendant who admitted to disorderly conduct during the January 6 Capitol riot. The judge, Tanya Chutkan, indicated that this case might be the last Capitol rioter sentencing she oversees, depending on external circumstances.
The defendant, Brian Leo Kelly, pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct and trespassing inside the Capitol. Judge Chutkan sentenced Kelly to 10 days in jail, along with probation, community service, and a restitution payment. She allowed him to leave the courtroom with the option to surrender voluntarily at a later date, unless he receives a pardon.
Kelly, described as a nonviolent participant in the riot, was seen walking through the Capitol halls, capturing images on his cellphone, and reportedly taking photos as souvenirs. Post-hearing, Kelly refrained from speculating on the possibility of a pardon from Trump, expressing goodwill towards both Democrats and Republicans.
It is anticipated that Trump may issue blanket pardons, particularly for nonviolent offenders involved in the Capitol siege, which would halt judicial oversight of these cases. If pardons extend to violent offenders and seditious conspirators, individuals currently serving prison sentences could be released from federal custody.
Another individual, Kellye SoRelle, was convicted of obstructing justice for advising the Oath Keepers to delete their January 6 plans via text. She received a sentence of 1 year in prison and 3 years of probation. Judge Amit Mehta emphasized the severity of sedition, labeling it as the most serious criminal act against the country.
Brothers Andrew Valentin and Matthew Valentin, who engaged in violent altercations with police at the Capitol, were each sentenced to two and a half years in prison. They were promptly taken into custody to commence their sentences. Judge Reggie Walton expressed bewilderment at the mob's willingness to undermine democracy.
Additional individuals sentenced on the same day included a man who damaged an original 171-year-old wooden door in the US Senate, as well as two men who separately sprayed Capitol police with chemical irritants.
