Case Studies Government 101
Constitutional Crisis and the Capitol Riot — The U.S. Government Tested
Overview
In the aftermath of the 2020 U.S. presidential election, a series of unprecedented events challenged the U.S. Constitution, the democratic process, and the American legal system. At the center of the controversy was President Donald Trump, whose repeated claims of a “stolen election” culminated in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol by hundreds of his supporters.
This case study explores how constitutional principles such as separation of powers, checks and balances, due process, and freedom of speech and assembly intersected with the violent reality of insurrection, disinformation, and political extremism. Students will analyze real-world events, court cases, and legal consequences for individuals who acted on misinformation — often citing loyalty to a leader above the law.
In the aftermath of the 2020 U.S. presidential election, a series of unprecedented events challenged the U.S. Constitution, the democratic process, and the American legal system. At the center of the controversy was President Donald Trump, whose repeated claims of a “stolen election” culminated in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol by hundreds of his supporters.
This case study explores how constitutional principles such as separation of powers, checks and balances, due process, and freedom of speech and assembly intersected with the violent reality of insurrection, disinformation, and political extremism. Students will analyze real-world events, court cases, and legal consequences for individuals who acted on misinformation — often citing loyalty to a leader above the law.
Introduction
Many constitutional issues have emerged revolving around Donald Trump, his presidency, the aftermath of his presidency including the January 6th insurrection and those who participated. Consequently, I'm using issues related to Donald Trump to exemplify constitutional principles, a number of which are currently being defined by the courts, beginning with the charges filed against some participants in the January 6th Insurrection. Those duped into travelling to Washington D.C. to support Trump's attempt to remain in power dived headlong into the destructive mess known as the January 6th Insurrection. For some, their actions will haunt them forever, all because they committed themselves to the Trump cult. When he made false claims about the stolen election, they believed his lies and that they could change the outcome by preventing the final Congressional verification of the electoral count on January 6th, 2021. Trump wanted Pence to reject the electoral votes and either declare Trump the winner or send the votes back to the states to be counted again. To this end, Donald Trump promoted their use of violence. This violence played out on January 6th, 2021, when hordes of his followers committed deplorable acts on persons and property. Many of them have served or are serving sentences in prison for their actions. Most claim their actions emerged from misguided loyalty, and belief in election lies. Much or their behavior prior to and following the 2020 election was cultlike.
In this case, the term “cultlike” describes the extreme commitment his followers exhibit to him. Some went so far as to participate in a riot, breaching the Capital on January 6th for which a number are currently incarcerated. This brand of Trumpism demonstrates intense loyalty often combined with a belief system designed to venerate Trump as divine retribution, or divinely ordained to save America. Aside from his ability to manipulate his followers, Trumpism demonstrates several other cult characteristics. This includes an “us vs. them mentality” that fosters a strong sense of loyalty toward the movement including animosity toward the “other.” The unquestioning loyalty that members demonstrate is another characteristic, even to the point that they will accept and ultimately dismiss obvious negative facts. A primary example is Trump’s liability for sexual assault. The manipulation of information to support Trump’ s narrative exists to the degree that some “news” groups promote alternative facts or conspiracy theories. Trumpism also emphasizes ideologies that exclude other viewpoints or practical considerations. Conformity to the degree that dissenting opinions mean overt rejection are prevalent in Trumpism. This control over members to participate in “Groupthink” has led to the disenfranchisement of several long-term republicans who failed to succumb to the propaganda of Trumpism and their dissent brought them punitive measures including political rejection. Symbols and rituals are present, along with Trump’s near messianic role whose decisions and actions are not questioned, but rather supported. The shooting that Trump survived reinforced this belief. Moreover, Trump’s designation of some media as “fake news” served to isolate followers from outside influences, particularly mainstream media, academia, or any other source that challenge his narrative. These and other unidentified characteristics make Trumpism fall into the cult category. Some now serve prison sentences for there loyalty and commitment.
Trump and more than one thousand people representing every state in the union currently face or are convicted of felony and misdemeanor offenses. As of this writing, the Department of Justice claims that numerous participants in the riot have received prison sentences. Some are already convicted and sentenced for the most severe felony, seditious conspiracy. Seditious conspiracy is the organized encouragement of rebellion or civil disorder against the state's authority. Members of the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys were convicted for this crime and currently serve some of the longest sentences. Other participants joined in less organized ways, but their actions led to prison sentences and fines. All those convicted face the permanency of a criminal record, and all that entails.
Trump's current charges include conspiracy to defraud the United States, conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, obstruction of and attempt to obstruct an official proceeding, and conspiracy against rights. The indictment claims that "Despite losing, the Defendant was determined to remain in power. On that day at 2:24, Trump tweeted that Mike Pence "didn't have the courage to do what should have been done.” Shortly thereafter, rioters marched through the hallways chanting "Hang Mike Pence." It appears that Trump intended all along to obstruct the election. According to witnesses, he rejected multiple pleas to stop the riot and instead promoted it, ultimately encouraging the participants to commit acts that destroyed their lives. The indictment reads, "For more than two months following election day on November 3rd, 2020, the Defendant spread lies that there had been outcome-determinative fraud in the election and that he had actually won. These claims were false, and the Defendant knew that they were false." Trump was arraigned in a Washington, D.C. court and pleaded not guilty.
As previously stated, many participating in the January 6th riot have or are currently serving their sentences because of their actions on that terrible day. Despite the damage done to his followers, Donald Trump continues spreading false election claims. He is also attempting to discredit the United States Legal System, and those who follow him seem willing to destroy their own lives in support of the Trump Cult. Even those receiving the lightest felony sentences now have a criminal record that gravely impacts their futures, including employment, housing, and civil rights. So far, former Proud Boy leader Enrique Tarrio has received the longest sentence, 22 years, and Stewart Rhodes, leader of the Oath Keepers, 18 years for seditious conspiracy. Many of these participants expressed remorse for their actions claiming that they got caught up in lies and misinformation promoted by Donald Trump and his cronies. Unfortunately, their cult deprogramming came by way of the American legal system. The following identifies several people who chose to follow the crowd led by a man without respect for the rule of law or the U.S. Constitution he swore to uphold.
Mariposa Castro, a Trump supporter, received a 45-day prison sentence because she entered the Capitol building on January 6th. During the attack, she was live on Facebook, demonstratively “gleeful” and “happy” according to the judge who oversaw her case. Her attorney claimed she was caught up with the crowd, and Castro claims that “dark energy forces” guided her actions. The judge sentenced her to prison and fined her $5000.
Larry Giberson was sentenced to 2 months in federal prison. He was a political science major at Princeton when he participated in the U.S. Capitol Riot. He pleaded guilty to obstructing, impeding, or interfering with law enforcement officers. Giberson participated in pushing and pulling against the police and chanted "drag them out!" as rioters assaulted officers. He expressed remorse for his actions and the judge believed him, giving him a lighter sentence than the prosecutors requested.
George Tanios received time served amounting to a 5-month sentence. He was involved in assaulting Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick on Jan. 6. Sicknick died the day after the assault, but his death was apparently due to natural causes. Tanios pleaded guilty to entering a restricted building and disorderly conduct. He was sentenced to time served, 1 year probation, community service, and payment of a fine.
Paul Hodgkins was sentenced to 8 months in prison for obstructing Congress during the Jan. 6 storming of the U.S. Capitol. The judge rejected the defense's request for no prison time stating that Hodgkins' act of raising a Trump flag on the Senate floor symbolized a threat to democracy. The defense claimed that Jan. 6th was a protest that got out of hand. The judge stated that storming the Capitol and threatening the lives of members of Congress goes beyond a simple riot, emphasizing the need for punishment.
Brian Gundersen was sentenced to 1 ½ years in federal prison. He was found guilty of two felony counts of obstruction of an official proceeding and assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers. Gundersen's public defender indicated that he had underlying mental health issues. He was arrested after his high school community recognized the varsity jacket in the crowd and reported it to the FBI.
Yvonne St Cyr was sentenced to more than 2 years in prison, along with 36 months' probation, $2,000 in restitution, and a $1,000 fine. She was convicted of felony charges related to the Capitol attacks on Jan. 6, 2021. After the sentencing, St Cyr posted to Facebook comparing herself to Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane and calling her actions on Jan. 6 the right thing, so in her case, deprogramming did not work.
Isreal Easterday was sentenced to 2 ½ years for several counts including felony assault on police.
Brian Mock received a sentence of nearly three years for assaulting police during the January 6th riot.
Jonathan Munafo was sentenced to nearly 3 years in prison for attacking a police officer during the Jan. 6 riot and stealing his shield. He also used a flag to try to smash a window at the U.S. Capitol during the riot. He was charged with felonies for these actions and eventually pled guilty to assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers and civil disorder. He has a history of mental illness and had a prior sentence of two years in prison for another felony.
Alan Byerly was sentenced to nearly 3 years in prison for assaulting an Associated Press photographer and attacking police officers with a stun gun during the U.S. Capitol riot.
Edward Vallejo was sentenced to 3 years in prison for seditious conspiracy in connection with the Oath Keepers' plot to stop the certification of Joe Biden's 2020 victory. He was an alleged leader of the armed quick reaction force staged outside of Washington, DC on January 6. Vallejo waited across the Potomac River during the riot, repeatedly texting that he was ready to deploy if ordered.
Kevin Seefried was sentenced to 3 years in prison for carrying a large Confederate flag inside the Capitol and was part of the mob that chased a US Capitol Police officer. He was found guilty of five charges, including obstructing an official proceeding and disorderly conduct. USCP Officer Eugene Goodman told the judge that Seefried jabbed the base of the flagpole towards him multiple times and made derogatory remarks and threats, expressing his intention to enter the Capitol. The judge also found that he used the Confederate flag to intimidate an African American officer.
Riley Williams was sentenced to 3 years in prison for felony civil disorder, resisting and impeding certain officers and four misdemeanor charges. She participated in storming the U.S. Capitol and directing a mob toward the office of then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, where another rioter stole a laptop. Prosecutors said that Williams “participated in domestic terrorism.”
Garret Miller was sentenced to a little over 3 years in prison after pleading guilty to 11 counts, including assaulting officers, interstate threat, and entering a restricted building. Prosecutors described Miller's actions as an attempt to take over the Capitol, stop certification, and terrorize lawmakers and law enforcement. His defense lawyer claimed that his client was under the influence of a cult. Miller also threatened Ocasio-Cortez on social media after she tweeted "impeach" following the riot. Consequently, the U.S. District Judge ordered 36 months of supervised release in addition to prison time.
Matthew Beddingfield received a sentence of over 3 years in federal prison for storming the Capitol and assaulting police with a flagpole. He pleaded guilty to a felony count of assaulting officers using a deadly weapon during the Capitol attack. He is one of many other Jan. 6 participants identified by the so called “Sedition Hunters.”
Charles Donohoe was sentenced to more than three years in prison for conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding as well as to assaulting, resisting or impeding officers.
Jacob Chansley was sentenced to nearly 3 ½ years in prison after being convicted of obstruction of an official proceeding. According to the Justice Department, Chansley was among the first 30 rioters to breach the government building. Although he was indicted on six charges, two of which were felonies, he made a deal with the government and pleaded guilty to a single count of obstruction of an official proceeding.
Peter Stager was sentenced to over 4 years in prison for felony assault. He attacked a news photographer and police officers guarding the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. He repeatedly struck a police officer with a flagpole. He was seen on video claiming that the Capitol law enforcement officers deserved death.
Thomas Sibick was sentenced to a little over 4 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to one count of assaulting, resisting, or impeding police and two counts of theft during the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. The victim was officer Michael Fanone. Sibick was videoed taking off Fanone's radio and badge after Fanone was attacked by others. Some individuals in the crowd were horrified by the attack on Fanone and tried to intervene, but Sibick used the opportunity to steal the radio and badge. Sibick continued with the part of the mob that attempted to breach the Capitol and was identified by people who saw his pictures from the riot on social media.
Devlyn Thompson was sentenced to nearly 4 years in prison for assaulting a police officer with a metal bat.
William Chestman received a sentence exceeding four years for obstruction and threatening officers with a dangerous weapon.
Michael Sparks received a sentence of more than 4 years for obstruction of an official proceeding and civil disorder, unlawful entry, disorderly conduct, and obstructing law enforcement. Sparks was the first demonstrator to breach the Capitol during the January 6 riot.
Richard "Bigo" Barnett was sentenced to 4 ½ years in prison for his actions during the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol. He was convicted on eight charges, including theft of government property, and entering a restricted building with a weapon. His picture taken in Nancy Pelosi's office became infamous, and prosecutors argued that it symbolized rioters taking control of the Capitol and political process. His feet were on Pelosi’s desk, and he is shown with a "stun device" in his pants. At the trial he expressed remorse for his actions, but later claimed political persecution and criticized the jury.
Eric Munchel was sentenced to almost 5 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release and $2,000 in restitution for his involvement in the breach of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. Both he and his mother Lisa Marie Eisenhart, sentenced to 30 months in prison, wore tactical gear and carried plastic zip tie-style handcuffs that were allegedly stolen from the Capitol building. They planned to take senators hostage.
Ryan Nichols was sentenced to more than five years in prison for one felony count of obstruction of an official proceeding and one felony count of assaulting officers performing their duties.
Robert Palmer was sentenced to more than 5 years in prison after pleading guilty to felony assault. He threw wooden boards and a fire extinguisher at police officers during the Jan. 6th riot. “Your honor. I’m really really ashamed of what I did,” he told US District Judge Tanya Chutkan through sobs.
Rodney Milstreed was sentenced to 5 years in prison, 24 months of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution. Capitol Police Officer Devan Gowdy suffered a concussion when Milstreed hurled his wooded club at a line of officers. Milstreed pleaded guilty on April 14, 2023, to assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers using a deadly or dangerous weapon and receipt and possession of an unregistered firearm, both felonies, and assault by striking, beating, or wounding, a misdemeanor. During the sentencing hearing, Chief Judge Boasberg found that Milstreed’s conduct warranted a sentencing enhancement under the Sentencing Guidelines provision for felony offenses involving terrorism because his crimes were calculated to influence or affect the conduct of the government by intimidation or coercion and to retaliate against government conduct.
Ronald Colton McAbee received a little less than 6-year sentence for five crimes resulting from his activities during January 6th.
Andrew Taake was sentenced to more than 6 years for assaulting law enforcement along with other charges related to the January 6th riot. He pleaded guilty to one count of assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers using a dangerous weapon.
James McGrew received a prison term of more than 6 years in federal prison after pleading guilty on May 13, 2022, to assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Court Judge Beryl A. Howell ordered 36 months of supervised release, a $5,000 fine and $2,000 restitution. He was part of a crowd that overwhelmed law enforcement officers trying to keep rioters from advancing into restricted areas. After he and others broke through, he proceeded to the Rotunda where officers were clearing out rioters where McGrew pushed one officer and struck another officer. McGrew struck another officer and tried to take the officer's baton. After exiting the building, McGrew joined another attack against officers securing the Lower West Terrace tunnel entrance. He launched a handrail into the tunnel, hitting an officer's shield or visor and moved to gain access to the tunnel area.
Julian Khater was sentenced to 6 ½ years in prison with credit for 22 months served for his involvement in assaulting Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick on Jan. 6. Sicknick died a day after the assault, but the two were not charged with his death even though Judge Thomas Hogan stated that the spray may have contributed to Sicknick's death. Khater pleaded guilty to assaulting two officers with a chemical irritant. Khater expressed regret for his actions.
Kyle Young was sentenced to a little more than 7 years in prison for participating with other rioters who attacked Washington, DC police officer Michael Fanone during the January 6, 2021, insurrection at the US Capitol. Fanone was beaten and electrocuted until he suffered a heart attack and lost consciousness.
Taylor James Johnatakis was sentenced to 7 years in prison for felony counts of obstruction of an official proceeding, assaulting officers and civil disorder.
Guy Wesley Reffitt was sentenced to more than 7 years for attempting to storm the Capitol and obstructing Congress's certification. He was the first to stand trial in the prosecution of those who stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, and found guilty on all charges, including obstruction of an official proceeding. Guy Reffitt was also found guilty of making threats to obstruct justice, transporting a firearm, and bringing that firearm to a restricted area he refused to leave.
Thomas Robertson was sentenced to 7 ¼ years in prison. He was found guilty of six crimes including felony charges. He is a former Virginia police officer and Army veteran. After using a stick against police officers he bragged about his actions on social media.
Cosper Head was sentenced to 7 and ½ years for dragging Officer Michael Fanone into the mob on January 6, 2021, yelling "I got one!" The mob fought police with chemical spray, poles, bats, and officers' own batons and shields. Fanone was beaten unconscious. "These were some of the darkest acts on one of (our) darkest days," district Judge Amy Berman Jackson said before handing down the sentence. "He was your prey, he was your trophy," she said of Fanone, adding later that the officer "was protecting America" that day.
Patrick McCaughey III was sentenced to 7 years and 6 months in prison for using a stolen riot shield to crush a police officer during the Jan. 6th riot after attacking police officers. He climbed scaffolding and took a selfie in the lower west tunnel, then used a stolen police shield against an officer named Hodges. He was convicted of nine counts including felony assault. After showing remorse for his actions, the judge described him as dangerous and appalling.
Jessica Watkins was sentenced to 8½ years in federal prison Friday after apologizing for her actions. She was convicted of obstruction of an official proceeding and aiding and abetting but acquitted on a charge of seditious conspiracy.
Dominic Pezzola was sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role in the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. He was convicted of multiple charges, including assaulting a police officer, robbery of a police shield, destruction of government property, and obstructing an official proceeding. He used a police riot shield to smash through a window, allowing the first wave of rioters to enter the Capitol building. He shouted, "Trump won!" after the sentencing, despite the judge expressing hope that he had turned a corner.
Thomas Webster was sentenced to 10 years in prison because he tackled a D.C. officer and grabbed his gas mask. U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta described Webster’s assault on the officer as one of the most haunting and shocking images from Jan. 6.
Kelly Meggs was sentenced to 12 years behind bars. She was the Florida chapter leader of the Oath Keepers. She was convicted of seditious conspiracy.
Daniel Joseph Rodriguez was sentenced to over 12 years in prison after Rodriguez pleaded guilty to multiple felony counts including obstructing an official proceeding and assaulting a law enforcement officer with a deadly weapon. Rodriguez admitted to using a taser on the neck of police officer Michael Fanone. A video of this violence visited on the police was a part of the Jan. 6 congressional committee hearings, as was the testimony of Fanone. The attorneys for Rodriguez defended his actions by claiming he was brainwashed, and following Trump in a cult-like manner.
Peter Schwartz received a 14-year sentence for 10 charges, including four felonies of assaulting, resisting or impeding officers while using a dangerous weapon. He assaulted officers with a chair and pepper spray. Schwartz will also face supervised release and must pay $2,000 in restitution to the Architect of the Capitol.
Zach Rehl was sentenced to 15 years in prison for conspiring to derail the peaceful transfer of power. He was another leader of the Proud Boys convicted of seditious conspiracy and was seen on video spraying a chemical irritant at police officers outside the Capitol on Jan. 6. Rehl also led at least three other men into the Capitol and into a senator’s office to smoke and pose for photos.
Joe Biggs was sentenced to 17 years for conspiring to derail the peaceful transfer of power. He was the Florida leader of Proud Boys and a close ally of former Proud Boys chairman Enrique Tarrio. He facilitated breaches at police lines and helped advance crowds into the Capitol. Prosecutors characterized Biggs as the "tip of the spear" for the mob during the Capitol attack because he played a role in four separate breaches of law enforcement lines and made his way to the Senate chamber.
Stewart Rhodes was sentenced to 18 years in prison for seditious conspiracy. He was the leader of the far-right Oath Keepers and planned a weekslong effort to derail the transfer of power from Trump to Joe Biden.
David Demsey was sentenced to 20 years for two counts of assaulting police on January 6th.
Enrique Tarrio was sentenced to 22 years in prison after being convicted of seditious conspiracy in May. He was accused of masterminding the attempt to keep Trump in office. Tarrio is the last to be sentenced among a group of Proud Boys and his sentence is the longest of all. He wasn't present at the Capitol on Jan. 6 but continued to rally his men remotely. Tarrio apologized before receiving his sentence.
Donald Trump himself is accused of participating in a scheme to interfere with the peaceful transfer of power after he lost the 2020 election to now-President Joe Biden. The indictment on August 1, 2023, accuses Trump and six unindicted, unnamed co-conspirators of knowingly spreading lies that there was widespread "fraud in the election and that he had actually won," ultimately leading to the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. The indictment delineates four counts including Conspiracy to defraud the U.S., Conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, Obstruction of and attempt to obstruct an official proceeding and conspiracy against rights. Trump was arraigned on August 3, 2023, and pled not guilty. Trump denies wrongdoing. His trial will be held in the U.S. district court, Washington, D.C. under the lead of U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan. The Lead prosecutor is special counsel Jack Smith. The Lead defense attorneys are John Lauro and Todd Blanche. In a separate case, Trump and 18 others are accused under Georgia's Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations or RICO law of coordinating an effort to thwart proper certification of the state's 2020 presidential election, which Biden won. The investigation was launched after an infamous recorded phone call to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger on Jan. 2, 2021, in which Trump pressed him "to find 11,780 votes." Trump denies the allegations.
In this case, the term “cultlike” describes the extreme commitment his followers exhibit to him. Some went so far as to participate in a riot, breaching the Capital on January 6th for which a number are currently incarcerated. This brand of Trumpism demonstrates intense loyalty often combined with a belief system designed to venerate Trump as divine retribution, or divinely ordained to save America. Aside from his ability to manipulate his followers, Trumpism demonstrates several other cult characteristics. This includes an “us vs. them mentality” that fosters a strong sense of loyalty toward the movement including animosity toward the “other.” The unquestioning loyalty that members demonstrate is another characteristic, even to the point that they will accept and ultimately dismiss obvious negative facts. A primary example is Trump’s liability for sexual assault. The manipulation of information to support Trump’ s narrative exists to the degree that some “news” groups promote alternative facts or conspiracy theories. Trumpism also emphasizes ideologies that exclude other viewpoints or practical considerations. Conformity to the degree that dissenting opinions mean overt rejection are prevalent in Trumpism. This control over members to participate in “Groupthink” has led to the disenfranchisement of several long-term republicans who failed to succumb to the propaganda of Trumpism and their dissent brought them punitive measures including political rejection. Symbols and rituals are present, along with Trump’s near messianic role whose decisions and actions are not questioned, but rather supported. The shooting that Trump survived reinforced this belief. Moreover, Trump’s designation of some media as “fake news” served to isolate followers from outside influences, particularly mainstream media, academia, or any other source that challenge his narrative. These and other unidentified characteristics make Trumpism fall into the cult category. Some now serve prison sentences for there loyalty and commitment.
Trump and more than one thousand people representing every state in the union currently face or are convicted of felony and misdemeanor offenses. As of this writing, the Department of Justice claims that numerous participants in the riot have received prison sentences. Some are already convicted and sentenced for the most severe felony, seditious conspiracy. Seditious conspiracy is the organized encouragement of rebellion or civil disorder against the state's authority. Members of the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys were convicted for this crime and currently serve some of the longest sentences. Other participants joined in less organized ways, but their actions led to prison sentences and fines. All those convicted face the permanency of a criminal record, and all that entails.
Trump's current charges include conspiracy to defraud the United States, conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, obstruction of and attempt to obstruct an official proceeding, and conspiracy against rights. The indictment claims that "Despite losing, the Defendant was determined to remain in power. On that day at 2:24, Trump tweeted that Mike Pence "didn't have the courage to do what should have been done.” Shortly thereafter, rioters marched through the hallways chanting "Hang Mike Pence." It appears that Trump intended all along to obstruct the election. According to witnesses, he rejected multiple pleas to stop the riot and instead promoted it, ultimately encouraging the participants to commit acts that destroyed their lives. The indictment reads, "For more than two months following election day on November 3rd, 2020, the Defendant spread lies that there had been outcome-determinative fraud in the election and that he had actually won. These claims were false, and the Defendant knew that they were false." Trump was arraigned in a Washington, D.C. court and pleaded not guilty.
As previously stated, many participating in the January 6th riot have or are currently serving their sentences because of their actions on that terrible day. Despite the damage done to his followers, Donald Trump continues spreading false election claims. He is also attempting to discredit the United States Legal System, and those who follow him seem willing to destroy their own lives in support of the Trump Cult. Even those receiving the lightest felony sentences now have a criminal record that gravely impacts their futures, including employment, housing, and civil rights. So far, former Proud Boy leader Enrique Tarrio has received the longest sentence, 22 years, and Stewart Rhodes, leader of the Oath Keepers, 18 years for seditious conspiracy. Many of these participants expressed remorse for their actions claiming that they got caught up in lies and misinformation promoted by Donald Trump and his cronies. Unfortunately, their cult deprogramming came by way of the American legal system. The following identifies several people who chose to follow the crowd led by a man without respect for the rule of law or the U.S. Constitution he swore to uphold.
Mariposa Castro, a Trump supporter, received a 45-day prison sentence because she entered the Capitol building on January 6th. During the attack, she was live on Facebook, demonstratively “gleeful” and “happy” according to the judge who oversaw her case. Her attorney claimed she was caught up with the crowd, and Castro claims that “dark energy forces” guided her actions. The judge sentenced her to prison and fined her $5000.
Larry Giberson was sentenced to 2 months in federal prison. He was a political science major at Princeton when he participated in the U.S. Capitol Riot. He pleaded guilty to obstructing, impeding, or interfering with law enforcement officers. Giberson participated in pushing and pulling against the police and chanted "drag them out!" as rioters assaulted officers. He expressed remorse for his actions and the judge believed him, giving him a lighter sentence than the prosecutors requested.
George Tanios received time served amounting to a 5-month sentence. He was involved in assaulting Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick on Jan. 6. Sicknick died the day after the assault, but his death was apparently due to natural causes. Tanios pleaded guilty to entering a restricted building and disorderly conduct. He was sentenced to time served, 1 year probation, community service, and payment of a fine.
Paul Hodgkins was sentenced to 8 months in prison for obstructing Congress during the Jan. 6 storming of the U.S. Capitol. The judge rejected the defense's request for no prison time stating that Hodgkins' act of raising a Trump flag on the Senate floor symbolized a threat to democracy. The defense claimed that Jan. 6th was a protest that got out of hand. The judge stated that storming the Capitol and threatening the lives of members of Congress goes beyond a simple riot, emphasizing the need for punishment.
Brian Gundersen was sentenced to 1 ½ years in federal prison. He was found guilty of two felony counts of obstruction of an official proceeding and assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers. Gundersen's public defender indicated that he had underlying mental health issues. He was arrested after his high school community recognized the varsity jacket in the crowd and reported it to the FBI.
Yvonne St Cyr was sentenced to more than 2 years in prison, along with 36 months' probation, $2,000 in restitution, and a $1,000 fine. She was convicted of felony charges related to the Capitol attacks on Jan. 6, 2021. After the sentencing, St Cyr posted to Facebook comparing herself to Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane and calling her actions on Jan. 6 the right thing, so in her case, deprogramming did not work.
Isreal Easterday was sentenced to 2 ½ years for several counts including felony assault on police.
Brian Mock received a sentence of nearly three years for assaulting police during the January 6th riot.
Jonathan Munafo was sentenced to nearly 3 years in prison for attacking a police officer during the Jan. 6 riot and stealing his shield. He also used a flag to try to smash a window at the U.S. Capitol during the riot. He was charged with felonies for these actions and eventually pled guilty to assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers and civil disorder. He has a history of mental illness and had a prior sentence of two years in prison for another felony.
Alan Byerly was sentenced to nearly 3 years in prison for assaulting an Associated Press photographer and attacking police officers with a stun gun during the U.S. Capitol riot.
Edward Vallejo was sentenced to 3 years in prison for seditious conspiracy in connection with the Oath Keepers' plot to stop the certification of Joe Biden's 2020 victory. He was an alleged leader of the armed quick reaction force staged outside of Washington, DC on January 6. Vallejo waited across the Potomac River during the riot, repeatedly texting that he was ready to deploy if ordered.
Kevin Seefried was sentenced to 3 years in prison for carrying a large Confederate flag inside the Capitol and was part of the mob that chased a US Capitol Police officer. He was found guilty of five charges, including obstructing an official proceeding and disorderly conduct. USCP Officer Eugene Goodman told the judge that Seefried jabbed the base of the flagpole towards him multiple times and made derogatory remarks and threats, expressing his intention to enter the Capitol. The judge also found that he used the Confederate flag to intimidate an African American officer.
Riley Williams was sentenced to 3 years in prison for felony civil disorder, resisting and impeding certain officers and four misdemeanor charges. She participated in storming the U.S. Capitol and directing a mob toward the office of then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, where another rioter stole a laptop. Prosecutors said that Williams “participated in domestic terrorism.”
Garret Miller was sentenced to a little over 3 years in prison after pleading guilty to 11 counts, including assaulting officers, interstate threat, and entering a restricted building. Prosecutors described Miller's actions as an attempt to take over the Capitol, stop certification, and terrorize lawmakers and law enforcement. His defense lawyer claimed that his client was under the influence of a cult. Miller also threatened Ocasio-Cortez on social media after she tweeted "impeach" following the riot. Consequently, the U.S. District Judge ordered 36 months of supervised release in addition to prison time.
Matthew Beddingfield received a sentence of over 3 years in federal prison for storming the Capitol and assaulting police with a flagpole. He pleaded guilty to a felony count of assaulting officers using a deadly weapon during the Capitol attack. He is one of many other Jan. 6 participants identified by the so called “Sedition Hunters.”
Charles Donohoe was sentenced to more than three years in prison for conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding as well as to assaulting, resisting or impeding officers.
Jacob Chansley was sentenced to nearly 3 ½ years in prison after being convicted of obstruction of an official proceeding. According to the Justice Department, Chansley was among the first 30 rioters to breach the government building. Although he was indicted on six charges, two of which were felonies, he made a deal with the government and pleaded guilty to a single count of obstruction of an official proceeding.
Peter Stager was sentenced to over 4 years in prison for felony assault. He attacked a news photographer and police officers guarding the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. He repeatedly struck a police officer with a flagpole. He was seen on video claiming that the Capitol law enforcement officers deserved death.
Thomas Sibick was sentenced to a little over 4 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to one count of assaulting, resisting, or impeding police and two counts of theft during the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. The victim was officer Michael Fanone. Sibick was videoed taking off Fanone's radio and badge after Fanone was attacked by others. Some individuals in the crowd were horrified by the attack on Fanone and tried to intervene, but Sibick used the opportunity to steal the radio and badge. Sibick continued with the part of the mob that attempted to breach the Capitol and was identified by people who saw his pictures from the riot on social media.
Devlyn Thompson was sentenced to nearly 4 years in prison for assaulting a police officer with a metal bat.
William Chestman received a sentence exceeding four years for obstruction and threatening officers with a dangerous weapon.
Michael Sparks received a sentence of more than 4 years for obstruction of an official proceeding and civil disorder, unlawful entry, disorderly conduct, and obstructing law enforcement. Sparks was the first demonstrator to breach the Capitol during the January 6 riot.
Richard "Bigo" Barnett was sentenced to 4 ½ years in prison for his actions during the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol. He was convicted on eight charges, including theft of government property, and entering a restricted building with a weapon. His picture taken in Nancy Pelosi's office became infamous, and prosecutors argued that it symbolized rioters taking control of the Capitol and political process. His feet were on Pelosi’s desk, and he is shown with a "stun device" in his pants. At the trial he expressed remorse for his actions, but later claimed political persecution and criticized the jury.
Eric Munchel was sentenced to almost 5 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release and $2,000 in restitution for his involvement in the breach of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. Both he and his mother Lisa Marie Eisenhart, sentenced to 30 months in prison, wore tactical gear and carried plastic zip tie-style handcuffs that were allegedly stolen from the Capitol building. They planned to take senators hostage.
Ryan Nichols was sentenced to more than five years in prison for one felony count of obstruction of an official proceeding and one felony count of assaulting officers performing their duties.
Robert Palmer was sentenced to more than 5 years in prison after pleading guilty to felony assault. He threw wooden boards and a fire extinguisher at police officers during the Jan. 6th riot. “Your honor. I’m really really ashamed of what I did,” he told US District Judge Tanya Chutkan through sobs.
Rodney Milstreed was sentenced to 5 years in prison, 24 months of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution. Capitol Police Officer Devan Gowdy suffered a concussion when Milstreed hurled his wooded club at a line of officers. Milstreed pleaded guilty on April 14, 2023, to assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers using a deadly or dangerous weapon and receipt and possession of an unregistered firearm, both felonies, and assault by striking, beating, or wounding, a misdemeanor. During the sentencing hearing, Chief Judge Boasberg found that Milstreed’s conduct warranted a sentencing enhancement under the Sentencing Guidelines provision for felony offenses involving terrorism because his crimes were calculated to influence or affect the conduct of the government by intimidation or coercion and to retaliate against government conduct.
Ronald Colton McAbee received a little less than 6-year sentence for five crimes resulting from his activities during January 6th.
Andrew Taake was sentenced to more than 6 years for assaulting law enforcement along with other charges related to the January 6th riot. He pleaded guilty to one count of assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers using a dangerous weapon.
James McGrew received a prison term of more than 6 years in federal prison after pleading guilty on May 13, 2022, to assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Court Judge Beryl A. Howell ordered 36 months of supervised release, a $5,000 fine and $2,000 restitution. He was part of a crowd that overwhelmed law enforcement officers trying to keep rioters from advancing into restricted areas. After he and others broke through, he proceeded to the Rotunda where officers were clearing out rioters where McGrew pushed one officer and struck another officer. McGrew struck another officer and tried to take the officer's baton. After exiting the building, McGrew joined another attack against officers securing the Lower West Terrace tunnel entrance. He launched a handrail into the tunnel, hitting an officer's shield or visor and moved to gain access to the tunnel area.
Julian Khater was sentenced to 6 ½ years in prison with credit for 22 months served for his involvement in assaulting Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick on Jan. 6. Sicknick died a day after the assault, but the two were not charged with his death even though Judge Thomas Hogan stated that the spray may have contributed to Sicknick's death. Khater pleaded guilty to assaulting two officers with a chemical irritant. Khater expressed regret for his actions.
Kyle Young was sentenced to a little more than 7 years in prison for participating with other rioters who attacked Washington, DC police officer Michael Fanone during the January 6, 2021, insurrection at the US Capitol. Fanone was beaten and electrocuted until he suffered a heart attack and lost consciousness.
Taylor James Johnatakis was sentenced to 7 years in prison for felony counts of obstruction of an official proceeding, assaulting officers and civil disorder.
Guy Wesley Reffitt was sentenced to more than 7 years for attempting to storm the Capitol and obstructing Congress's certification. He was the first to stand trial in the prosecution of those who stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, and found guilty on all charges, including obstruction of an official proceeding. Guy Reffitt was also found guilty of making threats to obstruct justice, transporting a firearm, and bringing that firearm to a restricted area he refused to leave.
Thomas Robertson was sentenced to 7 ¼ years in prison. He was found guilty of six crimes including felony charges. He is a former Virginia police officer and Army veteran. After using a stick against police officers he bragged about his actions on social media.
Cosper Head was sentenced to 7 and ½ years for dragging Officer Michael Fanone into the mob on January 6, 2021, yelling "I got one!" The mob fought police with chemical spray, poles, bats, and officers' own batons and shields. Fanone was beaten unconscious. "These were some of the darkest acts on one of (our) darkest days," district Judge Amy Berman Jackson said before handing down the sentence. "He was your prey, he was your trophy," she said of Fanone, adding later that the officer "was protecting America" that day.
Patrick McCaughey III was sentenced to 7 years and 6 months in prison for using a stolen riot shield to crush a police officer during the Jan. 6th riot after attacking police officers. He climbed scaffolding and took a selfie in the lower west tunnel, then used a stolen police shield against an officer named Hodges. He was convicted of nine counts including felony assault. After showing remorse for his actions, the judge described him as dangerous and appalling.
Jessica Watkins was sentenced to 8½ years in federal prison Friday after apologizing for her actions. She was convicted of obstruction of an official proceeding and aiding and abetting but acquitted on a charge of seditious conspiracy.
Dominic Pezzola was sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role in the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. He was convicted of multiple charges, including assaulting a police officer, robbery of a police shield, destruction of government property, and obstructing an official proceeding. He used a police riot shield to smash through a window, allowing the first wave of rioters to enter the Capitol building. He shouted, "Trump won!" after the sentencing, despite the judge expressing hope that he had turned a corner.
Thomas Webster was sentenced to 10 years in prison because he tackled a D.C. officer and grabbed his gas mask. U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta described Webster’s assault on the officer as one of the most haunting and shocking images from Jan. 6.
Kelly Meggs was sentenced to 12 years behind bars. She was the Florida chapter leader of the Oath Keepers. She was convicted of seditious conspiracy.
Daniel Joseph Rodriguez was sentenced to over 12 years in prison after Rodriguez pleaded guilty to multiple felony counts including obstructing an official proceeding and assaulting a law enforcement officer with a deadly weapon. Rodriguez admitted to using a taser on the neck of police officer Michael Fanone. A video of this violence visited on the police was a part of the Jan. 6 congressional committee hearings, as was the testimony of Fanone. The attorneys for Rodriguez defended his actions by claiming he was brainwashed, and following Trump in a cult-like manner.
Peter Schwartz received a 14-year sentence for 10 charges, including four felonies of assaulting, resisting or impeding officers while using a dangerous weapon. He assaulted officers with a chair and pepper spray. Schwartz will also face supervised release and must pay $2,000 in restitution to the Architect of the Capitol.
Zach Rehl was sentenced to 15 years in prison for conspiring to derail the peaceful transfer of power. He was another leader of the Proud Boys convicted of seditious conspiracy and was seen on video spraying a chemical irritant at police officers outside the Capitol on Jan. 6. Rehl also led at least three other men into the Capitol and into a senator’s office to smoke and pose for photos.
Joe Biggs was sentenced to 17 years for conspiring to derail the peaceful transfer of power. He was the Florida leader of Proud Boys and a close ally of former Proud Boys chairman Enrique Tarrio. He facilitated breaches at police lines and helped advance crowds into the Capitol. Prosecutors characterized Biggs as the "tip of the spear" for the mob during the Capitol attack because he played a role in four separate breaches of law enforcement lines and made his way to the Senate chamber.
Stewart Rhodes was sentenced to 18 years in prison for seditious conspiracy. He was the leader of the far-right Oath Keepers and planned a weekslong effort to derail the transfer of power from Trump to Joe Biden.
David Demsey was sentenced to 20 years for two counts of assaulting police on January 6th.
Enrique Tarrio was sentenced to 22 years in prison after being convicted of seditious conspiracy in May. He was accused of masterminding the attempt to keep Trump in office. Tarrio is the last to be sentenced among a group of Proud Boys and his sentence is the longest of all. He wasn't present at the Capitol on Jan. 6 but continued to rally his men remotely. Tarrio apologized before receiving his sentence.
Donald Trump himself is accused of participating in a scheme to interfere with the peaceful transfer of power after he lost the 2020 election to now-President Joe Biden. The indictment on August 1, 2023, accuses Trump and six unindicted, unnamed co-conspirators of knowingly spreading lies that there was widespread "fraud in the election and that he had actually won," ultimately leading to the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. The indictment delineates four counts including Conspiracy to defraud the U.S., Conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, Obstruction of and attempt to obstruct an official proceeding and conspiracy against rights. Trump was arraigned on August 3, 2023, and pled not guilty. Trump denies wrongdoing. His trial will be held in the U.S. district court, Washington, D.C. under the lead of U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan. The Lead prosecutor is special counsel Jack Smith. The Lead defense attorneys are John Lauro and Todd Blanche. In a separate case, Trump and 18 others are accused under Georgia's Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations or RICO law of coordinating an effort to thwart proper certification of the state's 2020 presidential election, which Biden won. The investigation was launched after an infamous recorded phone call to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger on Jan. 2, 2021, in which Trump pressed him "to find 11,780 votes." Trump denies the allegations.
Essential Questions
Background ReadingUse the detailed summary from the document to:
Key Legal Concepts
Case Profiles for AnalysisStudents will examine selected individuals and their legal outcomes. Each profile includes:
Activity: “Constitutional Response Simulation”Students will work in teams to represent:
Discussion Prompts
AssessmentShort Essay or Socratic Seminar: Evaluate how the U.S. legal system responded to the January 6 attack. In your view, did the government uphold constitutional values effectively? Why or why not?
Extension: Comparative Analysis
Compare the U.S. response to the Capitol riot to other nations’ responses to attempted coups or insurrections. How do legal systems worldwide deal with internal threats to democracy?
- What constitutional principles were tested during and after the events of January 6, 2021?
- How does the rule of law function when democratic institutions are attacked from within?
- What legal consequences have been issued, and how do they reflect accountability in a constitutional democracy?
- What are the dangers of political cultism in a democratic society?
Background ReadingUse the detailed summary from the document to:
- Understand the actions of Donald Trump, his supporters, and their consequences.
- Learn about the concept of seditious conspiracy and obstruction of an official proceeding.
- Explore the role of federal courts in adjudicating criminal behavior tied to political violence.
- Examine individual case summaries of those sentenced for their involvement in the Capitol attack.
Key Legal Concepts
- Seditious Conspiracy (18 U.S. Code § 2384): Conspiring to overthrow, put down, or destroy by force the government of the United States.
- Obstruction of an Official Proceeding (18 U.S. Code § 1512): Interfering with Congressional certification of Electoral College results.
- Conspiracy Against Rights (18 U.S. Code § 241): Preventing others from exercising constitutional rights, such as voting.
Case Profiles for AnalysisStudents will examine selected individuals and their legal outcomes. Each profile includes:
- The defendant’s background.
- Specific actions on January 6.
- Charges and legal defense.
- Final sentencing.
- Reflections (if any) on their actions and loyalty to Trump.
- Jacob Chansley ("QAnon Shaman") – Iconic imagery, early entry, sentenced to 3.5 years.
- Jessica Watkins – Oath Keepers member, 8.5-year sentence.
- Enrique Tarrio – Leader of the Proud Boys, 22-year sentence, not physically present but coordinated the attack.
- Paul Hodgkins – Trump flag on Senate floor, 8 months, first felony conviction.
- Peter Schwartz – 14 years for multiple assaults.
- Donald Trump – Indicted for obstruction, fraud, and conspiracy, case pending.
Activity: “Constitutional Response Simulation”Students will work in teams to represent:
- Federal prosecutors
- Defense attorneys
- U.S. District Judges
- Journalists covering the trial
- Historians evaluating the legacy of January 6
- Reconstruct the events using real evidence from the case.
- Defend or prosecute based on constitutional principles.
- Determine sentencing, referencing similar cases.
- Reflect on the long-term impact on democracy.
Discussion Prompts
- Should belief in misinformation mitigate sentencing?
- Was the response to the insurrection consistent with how the U.S. treats other political violence?
- How does the concept of cult-like loyalty threaten constitutional order?
- What role should media and social media platforms play in preventing the spread of dangerous disinformation?
AssessmentShort Essay or Socratic Seminar: Evaluate how the U.S. legal system responded to the January 6 attack. In your view, did the government uphold constitutional values effectively? Why or why not?
Extension: Comparative Analysis
Compare the U.S. response to the Capitol riot to other nations’ responses to attempted coups or insurrections. How do legal systems worldwide deal with internal threats to democracy?