Enrique Tarrio, the former leader of the far-right group Proud Boys, has been sentenced to 22 years in prison for his role in orchestrating the attack on the US Capitol on January 6, 2021. This is the longest sentence handed down to a ringleader involved in the attack thus far. Tarrio, who was not present in Washington during the riot, played a significant role in organizing the group’s participation.
Over 1,100 individuals have been arrested on charges related to the Capitol riot, which took place as lawmakers were certifying President Joe Biden’s victory. The rioters had gathered in support of then-President Donald Trump, who has continued to deny the outcome of the 2020 election. Trump has even promised to pardon most, if not all, of the rioters if he is re-elected in 2024.
Tarrio was convicted in May on charges of seditious conspiracy, a charge dating back to the US Civil War era, as well as other counts. Prior to his sentencing, Tarrio expressed remorse and apologized to the police and residents of Washington, D.C., for his role in the events. He stated that he would have to live with the shame for the rest of his life and acknowledged that he had been misguided in believing he was a victim.
Tarrio, who wore an orange jail uniform during the hearing, pleaded for mercy from the judge, asking that his 40s not be taken away from him. He was seen wiping tears from his eyes as his mother also appealed for leniency.
The Proud Boys, founded in New York City in 2016, have described themselves as an all-male drinking club. They have been known to align themselves with Trump and engage in clashes with far-left anti-fascist activists. Tarrio’s defense argued that he was a “keyboard ninja” and a “misguided patriot” who engaged in inflammatory rhetoric but had no intention of overthrowing the government.
However, US District Judge Timothy Kelly, a Trump nominee, noted that Tarrio had shown no remorse for his actions in the past. Judge Kelly emphasized the seriousness of the charge of seditious conspiracy and declared Tarrio to be the ultimate leader of the conspiracy.
In addition to seditious conspiracy, Tarrio was found guilty of obstruction and conspiracy charges, civil disorder, and destruction of government property. Prosecutors labeled his actions as a “calculated act of terrorism” and sought a sentence of 33 years, while the defense argued for no more than 15 years.
Tarrio plans to appeal the sentence. As he was led out of the courtroom, he waved to his family in the public gallery and flashed a peace sign.
This sentencing marks the conclusion of a series of hearings for the leaders involved in the Capitol riot. Prior to Tarrio’s sentence, the longest terms were handed down to Ethan Nordean, another Proud Boy, and Stewart Rhodes, founder of the far-right militia Oath Keepers, who received 18-year sentences in May and last week, respectively. Three other Proud Boys were also sentenced last week, with prison terms ranging from 10 to 17 years.
The charges against the rioters have varied, from entering restricted areas to assault, conspiracy, and destruction of government property. Approximately 200 individuals have pleaded guilty to felony charges. The FBI is still actively investigating the incident and attempting to locate 14 rioters captured on video assaulting police officers or members of the media.