Ex-Proud Boys Leader Receives 22-Year Sentence for Capitol Attack
Former Chairman of the far-right group the Proud Boys, Henry Enrique Tarrio, has been sentenced to 22 years in prison for his involvement in the seditious plot to disrupt the peaceful transfer of power in the United States. This marks the longest sentence handed down for anyone connected to the attack on the Capitol on January 6, 2021.
Tarrio, aged 39, was convicted in May along with three others for seditious conspiracy, as they sought to prevent Congress from affirming President Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 election. The culmination of their efforts led to a mob of supporters of former President Donald Trump storming the Capitol.
During the sentencing, U.S. District Judge Timothy Kelly emphasized the seriousness of the offense and Tarrio’s significant role as the ultimate leader of the conspiracy. Judge Kelly stated that the attack caused physical harm and property damage, while also interrupting the nation’s long-standing tradition of a peaceful transition of power. Fixing the broken tradition will require both time and effort, the judge added.
Tarrio’s sentence exceeds the previous record sentence of 18 years, given to the leader of the Oath Keepers group, Stewart Rhodes, as well as another leader of the Proud Boys, Ethan Nordean.
Other members of the Proud Boys who were convicted alongside Tarrio have also received lengthy prison sentences. Joseph Biggs was sentenced to 17 years, Zachary Rehl must serve 15 years, and Dominic Pezzola received a 10-year sentence.
Federal prosecutors had initially sought a 33-year prison term for Tarrio, highlighting his leadership role in orchestrating the events of January 6. Although Tarrio was reportedly not present at the Capitol during the attack, he communicated with others who entered the building.
Tarrio expressed remorse during his statement before the judge, particularly acknowledging the injuries suffered by Capitol police officers during the riot. He claimed to be deeply ashamed and said the trial had humbled him, stating that he wanted no further involvement in politics, groups, or rallies upon his release.
The defense lawyers for Tarrio argued against the prosecution’s request for a terrorism enhancement, which would have increased his recommended sentence to 30 years. They instead portrayed Tarrio as a misguided patriot seeking to protect the country.
However, the judge ultimately disagreed, pointing to Tarrio’s lack of remorse before the trial and stating that there was no indication he was remorseful for the charges he was convicted of.
This sentencing reflects the efforts of the justice system to hold accountable those responsible for the attack on the Capitol, in an attempt to preserve the rule of law and restore the sanctity of democratic processes in the United States. The severity of the sentences serves as a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated, and those who participate in undermining democracy will face stiff consequences.
