A Kentucky man has been sentenced to more than four years in prison for his involvement in the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol. The man, who was the first rioter to enter the building, was described by a police officer as a catalyst for the insurrection.
The man, who still believes the 2020 presidential election was marred by fraud, expressed remorse during his sentencing, acknowledging that the events of that day did not help anybody and lamenting the state of the country.
The judge, in handing down a sentence of four years and five months, emphasized that there was nothing patriotic about the man's actions and highlighted the seriousness of his role in what he called a 'national disgrace.'
The man was convicted on all six charges he faced, including a felony count of interfering with police during a civil disorder. Leading up to the attack, he used social media to promote conspiracy theories and advocate for a civil war.
Accompanied by a friend, the man traveled to Washington, D.C., after attending then-President Donald Trump's rally. He was captured on video entering the Capitol through a broken window, with prosecutors stating that his actions emboldened others to follow.
Despite being sprayed with pepper spray by a police officer, the man continued to advance into the building, shouting at police officers before eventually leaving the Capitol.
His attorney argued that the man did not lead the crowd into the building, but the judge emphasized the significance of his actions as the first person to breach the Capitol.
The man's friend, who was also involved in the attack, pleaded guilty to assault and obstruction charges and was sentenced to over four years in prison last year.
Over 1,400 people have been charged in connection with the Capitol riot, with approximately 950 defendants convicted and sentenced, including over 600 who have received terms of imprisonment.
