On January 6th, 2021, a group of individuals stormed the United States Capitol building in an attempt to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. Among those involved was Stewart Rhodes, the founder of the far-right group Oath Keepers. Rhodes, along with ten other members of the group, has been sentenced to 18 years in prison for leading a seditious conspiracy on that day.
Rhodes founded Oath Keepers in 2009, with the stated mission of defending the Constitution and upholding the oath taken by military and law enforcement personnel to protect it. However, the group has been accused of promoting extremist views and engaging in violent behavior. In the lead-up to January 6th, Rhodes and other members of Oath Keepers were reportedly planning and coordinating their actions.
On the day of the insurrection, Rhodes and his fellow Oath Keepers were seen wearing tactical gear and communicating via walkie-talkies as they moved through the Capitol building. Prosecutors argued that Rhodes was a key figure in organizing the group’s actions and directing their movements. They also presented evidence that Rhodes had discussed plans for a “quick reaction force” to be deployed in case of a need for violence.
Rhodes and his co-defendants were charged with conspiracy to obstruct an official proceeding, obstruction of an official proceeding, and destruction of government property. They were also accused of using force to prevent law enforcement officers from carrying out their duties. In September 2021, Rhodes pleaded guilty to all charges against him.
At his sentencing hearing, Rhodes expressed remorse for his actions and apologized for his role in the insurrection. However, the judge noted that Rhodes had shown no remorse in the months following January 6th, and had continued to promote extremist views on social media. The judge also cited Rhodes’ leadership role in Oath Keepers as a factor in his sentence.
The sentencing of Stewart Rhodes and his co-defendants sends a clear message that those who engage in seditious behavior will be held accountable for their actions. It also highlights the danger posed by extremist groups like Oath Keepers, who seek to undermine the rule of law and incite violence. As the country continues to grapple with the aftermath of January 6th, it is important to remember that such actions have no place in a democratic society, and that those who engage in them will face consequences.
