Far-Right Proud Boys Members Sentenced for Roles in Capitol Riot
Washington — Two members of the far-right extremist group Proud Boys, Dominic Pezzola and Ethan Nordean, have been sentenced for their involvement in the January 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol. Nordean, a leader of the Proud Boys, received the longest sentence so far in the Jan. 6 prosecutions, with 18 years in prison for seditious conspiracy. U.S. District Judge Timothy Kelly compared Nordean’s upbringing and lack of criminal record to the tragic events that unfolded on that day.
The Justice Department stated that Nordean and Pezzola were responsible for leading a group of Proud Boys onto the Capitol grounds, resulting in the dismantling of barricades, breaching of the Capitol building, assaults on police, and destruction of property. Nordean expressed remorse for the actions that caused serious harm and loss of life during his court appearance, but maintained that he intended to keep people safe.
Pezzola, who gained recognition for smashing a Capitol window with a riot shield, was sentenced to 10 years in prison. He was convicted on several felony counts, including obstruction of an official proceeding and destruction of government property, but was acquitted of the most severe charge of seditious conspiracy. Prosecutors had requested a 20-year sentence, labeling Pezzola as one of the most violent members of the January 6 mob.
During the trial, evidence was presented that showcased Pezzola’s violent actions, including attacking law enforcement and stealing a riot shield. In a selfie video taken from inside the Capitol Crypt, Pezzola proclaimed their ability to take control of the building. Prosecutors emphasized the impact of this image on the perception of the events. Pezzola’s defense argued against the existence of a conspiracy among the Proud Boys.
Both Nordean and Pezzola were given the opportunity to speak before sentencing, with Nordean’s wife, sister, and Pezzola’s wife, daughter, and mother also addressing the court. Pezzola’s defiant claim of “Trump won!” as he left the courtroom contrasted with his earlier statement of giving up politics. His family members portrayed the devastating effect that this ordeal has had on their lives.
The sentences of Nordean, Pezzola, and their co-defendants Joseph Biggs and Zachary Rehl, who received 17 and 15 years respectively for seditious conspiracy, are part of the ongoing prosecutions related to the assault on the U.S. Capitol. Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio is set to be sentenced on Tuesday.
These sentences highlight the severity with which the justice system is treating the individuals involved in the attack on the Capitol, as they are held accountable for their actions that undermined the democratic process.