Title: Proud Boys Leader Receives 15-Year Sentence for Capitol Attack
Zach Rehl, the president of the Philadelphia chapter of the alt-right group Proud Boys, has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for his involvement in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. This sentencing follows a two-hour hearing held in Washington where the judge delivered a punishment that falls just shy of the longest prison term handed down so far related to the riot.
Rehl’s sentence is only surpassed by that of Joseph Biggs, a fellow Proud Boy leader from Florida, who received a 17-year sentence earlier in the day, and the 18-year prison term given to Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes in May. Despite this, the 15-year sentence Rehl received is half the minimum term recommended by federal sentencing guidelines. Prosecutors had sought a 30-year prison term, describing Rehl’s actions as an attempt to change the course of American history through force.
While acknowledging the disparity, U.S. District Judge Timothy Kelly explained that he sentenced Rehl below the guidelines due to his belief that Rehl did not intend a mass casualty event typically associated with terrorist acts. However, the judge emphasized that it was a miracle that there wasn’t greater loss of life on January 6.
During the hearing, Rehl, 37, expressed remorse, calling the events of that day despicable. He tearfully read from a prepared statement, admitting that he fell for lies spread by politicians about the 2020 election, ultimately causing him to lose sight of what truly mattered in life – his family. Rehl stated that he is done with politics and with peddling lies for others who do not truly care about him.
The sentencing hearing took place three months after Rehl, Biggs, and two other Proud Boys leaders were convicted of seditious conspiracy charges. The jury concluded that they played a significant role in inciting the mob that disrupted the certification of President Joe Biden’s victory and threatened the peaceful transition of power.
This verdict represents a significant victory for the Justice Department as it continues to hold those accountable for their involvement in the January 6 attack. Among the hundreds charged thus far, the Proud Boys have emerged as a central focus of the investigations.
In conclusion, Zach Rehl’s sentencing to 15 years in federal prison for his role in the Capitol attack highlights the ongoing efforts to bring justice to those responsible. While the punishment is below the recommended guidelines, it serves as a reminder of the gravity of the events that unfolded on January 6, 2021, and the impact they had on American democracy.
