A prominent conservative activist's son has been sentenced to nearly four years in prison for his involvement in the assault on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. The defendant, identified as a 44-year-old from Palmyra, Pennsylvania, was among the first rioters to enter the Capitol and reach the Senate floor during the siege.
The defendant's father, a well-known conservative figure, founded several media organizations. The defendant expressed remorse in court, apologizing to Capitol police officers and acknowledging the impact of his actions on his family.
The judge noted that the defendant had planned to go to the Capitol on January 6 and anticipated violence. Prosecutors described the defendant's actions as 'relentless and sustained attacks' on law enforcement, leading to multiple breaches inside and outside the Capitol.
The defendant was convicted on 10 charges, including obstructing the joint session of Congress to certify President Joe Biden's electoral victory. After attending a rally near the White House, the defendant joined a mob in storming the Capitol, breaking windows and engaging in confrontations with law enforcement.
Despite prosecutors recommending a longer sentence, the judge sentenced the defendant to three years and nine months in prison. The defendant was allowed to remain free until reporting to prison at a later date.
Over 1,350 individuals have been charged in connection with the Capitol riot, with more than 850 already sentenced to terms ranging from a few days to 22 years.
