The man most identified with the disturbances that occurred in an attempt to prevent the confirmation of the election results and the victory of Biden, Jacob Chansley, was tried and convicted. Chansley’s sentence may set a precedent for more than 660 other defendants during the riot
Jacob Chansley, who became a symbol of the events of the Capitol break-in during the debate to confirm the results of the presidential election, was sentenced to 41 months in prison. A federal judge ruled that he identified himself with the riot.
Chansley was recognized as a major cause of the riots when he was documented in many videos and photos from the incident while wearing a Viking helmet, fur clothing and holding a spear with the United States flag on it. In one documentary, he was heard shouting during the incident “this is not a silent protest” as he swept the rioters into severe violence. He also left behind a threatening note for former Vice President Mike Pence. He has earned the nickname “The Shaman from the Capitol”, referring to a native pagan doctor, or “Q-Anon’s shaman”, referring to his favorite author of conspiracy theories.
Judge Royce Lambert ruled that Chancellor should be held in custody pending sentencing, despite a number of attempts by the man to be released, including an unapproved interview for the 60-minute show. He made headlines when he asked for pardon from President Trump before it ended his term, but the president declined to comment on his request. Chansley also asked for organic food and subsequently launched a hunger strike.
During the trial, Judge Lambert turned to the defense attorney and told him, “He made himself a symbol of this whole incident, didn’t he? For better or worse, he made himself a symbol of the riot.” Chansley himself returned to the courtroom in his defense speech, saying he aspires to follow in the footsteps of past revolutionaries.
“I came to solitary confinement in prison because of me. Because of my decisions. I broke the law. I have to do what Gandhi did and take responsibility. There is no question here at all, that’s what a man of honor will do,” Chansley said during the trial.
Chansley’s sentencing may set a precedent for more than 660 other defendants in breach of the law during the riot who have not yet stood trial. During the riot in the Capitol building, six people were killed, including two policemen.