New Court Ruling Could Lead to Shorter Sentences for Capitol Attack Defendants
Background
A federal appeals court ruling on Friday may result in shorter sentences for over 100 individuals convicted of participating in the January 6, 2021 attack on the US Capitol with supporters of former President Donald Trump.
The Court’s Decision
The US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia stated that defendants involved in obstructing the work of the US Congress should not have received longer sentences for interfering with the “administration of justice.” The court’s decision upheld the conviction of Larry Brock, a retired Air Force officer who was among the individuals wearing combat gear and carrying zip-tie handcuffs during the attack. However, the court required that he be resentenced.
This ruling may also lead district judges in Washington, DC to reevaluate and potentially reduce sentences for other rioters charged with felony obstruction.
Implications and Pending Matters
The US Department of Justice declined to comment on the decision, but acknowledged that more than 100 defendants’ cases could be impacted. The Supreme Court is scheduled to address the issue of felony obstruction next month, specifically its applicability to the January 6 rioters.
This ruling could also have implications for former President Trump, who is facing obstruction charges related to allegations of plotting to remain in power despite losing the 2020 election to Democrat Joe Biden.
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