A Washington state man who used a megaphone to orchestrate a mob’s attack on police officers guarding the U.S. Capitol was sentenced on Wednesday to more than seven years in prison.

U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth said videos captured Taylor James Johnatakis playing a leadership role during the Jan. 6, 2021, riot. Johnatakis led other rioters on a charge against a police line, “barked commands” over his megaphone and shouted step-by-step directions for overpowering officers, the judge said.

“In any angry mob, there are leaders and there are followers. Mr. Johnatakis was a leader. He knew what he was doing that day,” the judge said before sentencing him to seven years and three months behind bars.

Johnatakis, who represented himself with an attorney on standby, has repeatedly expressed rhetoric that appears to be inspired by the anti-government “ sovereign citizen ” movement. He asked the judge questions at his sentencing, including, “Does the record reflect that I repent in my sins?”

  • Binthinkin@kbin.social
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    7 months ago

    The sovcit people are the best example of what no education, isolation, and religion can do to a person.

    They make people who have no grasp on reality and therefore are easy to manipulate through simple messaging, memes, and the internet.

    Perfect for foreign and domestic terrorist organizations to use as they please.

    Remember folks, stamp out ignorance wherever you see it. Be vigilant. This is an election year and these dirtbags are going to crop up everywhere come August.