By Ken Zino
Elmer Stewart Rhodes III, founder and leader of the Oath Keepers, and Kelly Meggs, leader of the Florida chapter of the group, were found guilty by a jury on Tuesday of seditious conspiracy and other charges for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021.
“Their actions disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress that was in the process of ascertaining and counting the electoral votes related to the presidential election,” the Justice Department said.
Three additional defendants, who were leaders and associates of the organization, Kenneth Harrelson, Jessica Watkins and Thomas Caldwell, were found guilty of related felony charges. The verdict followed an eight-week trial and three days of deliberations.
No sentencing date was set. However, charges of seditious conspiracy, conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, obstruction of an official proceeding, and tampering with documents or proceedings each carry a statutory maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
This, of course, begs the question about the ex-president who wanted to lead Oath Keepers that day after launching his Big Lie before the election and pushing it non-stop afterwards to overturn the legal results. The Big Lie was echoed by virtually the entire Republican party.
“Today the jury returned a verdict convicting all defendants of criminal conduct, including two Oath Keepers leaders for seditious conspiracy against the United States,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The Justice Department is committed to holding accountable those criminally responsible for the assault on our democracy on January 6, 2021. The prosecutors and agents on this case worked tirelessly, with extraordinary skill, and in the best traditions of the Department of Justice.”
No prevarication whatsoever that I can perceive in Garland’s statement.
Last words for the moment from the FBI: “As this case shows, breaking the law in an attempt to undermine the functioning of American democracy will not be tolerated,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The FBI will always uphold the rights of all citizens who peacefully engage in First Amendment protected activities, but we and our partners will continue to hold accountable those who engaged in illegal acts regarding the January 6, 2021, siege on the U.S. Capitol.”
In the 22 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 900 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 275 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement.
“The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.”
Yes, ongoing, but if there was enough to convict Oath Keepers, seems that should be sufficient to indict Trump. Coming soon “The United States Versus Donald J. Trump.” J as in Justice?
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Left on Rhodes?
(TUE 11/29/22)
What do the guilty verdicts of Oath Keepers leaders Stewart Rhodes and Kelly Meggs mean for future seditious conspiracy cases by the Justice Department? Watch this space for commentary by contributing pundit Ken Zino.
Click on The Gray Area to read Zino’s commentary on the Chinese intelligence officer recently convicted of espionage in the case involving General Electrics Aviation secrets.
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