By Trend News Line 2024-04-19 23:13:06.
Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Capitol Riot
Four men from Southern California have been sentenced to federal prison for their involvement in the January 6th U.S. Capitol riot. The Department of Justice identified the men as members of the \”Three Percenters,\” a group described as antigovernment by the Southern Poverty Law Center.
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Sentences and Charges
The convicted felons each received prison sentences as follows:
– Erik Scott Warner, 48, of Menifee, California, was sentenced to 27 months in prison.
– Felipe Antonio Martinez, 50, of Lake Elsinore, California, was sentenced to 21 months in prison.
– Derek Kinnison, 42, of Lake Elsinore, California, was sentenced to 33 months in prison.
– Ronald Mele, 54, of Temecula, California, was sentenced to 33 months in prison.
In addition to their prison terms, the men were ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution and complete 36 months of supervised release. They were convicted of various charges including conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, obstruction of an official proceeding, entering a restricted building or grounds, and disorderly conduct in a restricted building or grounds.
Details of the Case
During the trial, prosecutors revealed that the four men worked together to gather weapons, travel to Washington D.C., and disrupt Congress’ certification of the 2020 election. They communicated through a Telegram chat group named \”The California Patriots — DC Brigade.\”
On the day of the riot, the group participated in the \”Stop the Steal\” rally before heading towards the Capitol. Prosecutors stated that all the men actively engaged in the riot by agitating the crowd, wearing tactical gear, and carrying weapons such as bear spray, wooden flag poles, and knives. Mele even recorded a selfie video as he marched towards the Capitol chanting \”Storm the Capitol.\”
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After the riot, Warner and Kinnison deleted the Telegram chat from their phones. Since January 6th, federal prosecutors have charged over 1,387 individuals in connection with the breach, with nearly 500 facing charges for assaulting or impeding law enforcement.
About the Author
Matthew Rodriguez, the author of this article, is a digital producer at kcalnews.com. With previous reporting experience for local outlets like the Argonaut and Pasadena Weekly, Matt typically covers breaking news and crime. His dedication to journalism and commitment to delivering accurate and engaging stories shine through in his work..
Southern California men sentenced federal prison Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol riot
California men sentenced federal prison U.S. Capitol riot.
