Stewart Rhodes and Enrique Tarrio, prominent figures from the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot, were released from prison following pardons issued by President Trump. Tarrio, former Proud Boys leader, received a 22-year sentence, while Rhodes, ex-leader of the Oath Keepers, had an 18-year sentence commuted. Their releases occurred shortly after the President had promised to pardon those involved in the insurrection, emphasizing his stance on the riot's justification. These developments represent a significant moment in the ongoing controversy surrounding the January 6 events and its aftermath.
Trump had promised to pardon those charged in relation to the events of that day, when a mob of his supporters stormed the US legislature to try to prevent Congress from certifying his loss in the 2020 election.
For decades, Mr Rhodes, it is clear you have wanted the democracy of this country to devolve into violence, US District Judge Amit Mehta said in handing down the sentence.
Rhodes denied any wrongdoing and said he was the victim of politically motivated persecution.
Rhodes was sentenced in 2023 after being found guilty of seditious conspiracy, a rare charge that alleges the defendant plotted to undermine the authority of the US government or attack it.
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