Neo-Nazi Member Pleads Guilty to Capitol Riot Charges
A member of a neo-Nazi group recently pleaded guilty to Capitol riot charges, admitting to his involvement in the violent events that occurred during the infamous Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol building. Richard Zachary Ackerman confessed to obstructing law enforcement officers and theft of government property. By throwing a water bottle at police and taking a police helmet as a “war trophy,” Ackerman participated in the chaotic activities that unfolded at the lower west tunnel of the Capitol.
Identification and Investigation
The FBI received a crucial tip that led to Ackerman’s identification. A photo of a U.S. Capitol Police helmet with a “New England 131” sticker on it surfaced shortly after the attack. Further investigation revealed that “New England 131” was associated with the “Nationalist Socialist Club 131” and the “White Defense Force,” described as a neo-Nazi group with a militant ideology against the perceived threats to the white race.
Insight from FBI Sources
A confidential FBI source provided valuable insights into Ackerman’s actions. During a 2021 meeting with members of NSC-131, Ackerman, known online as “Zach Parker,” boasted about his presence at the Capitol on Jan. 6 and displayed the stolen helmet. This information corroborated the evidence against Ackerman, linking him directly to the events of that fateful day.
Legal Ramifications and Pretrial Proceedings
Following his arrest in New Hampshire in June, Ackerman has been on pretrial release. Despite the gravity of his charges, he is scheduled for sentencing in July before U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Kelly. Ackerman’s case is part of the larger legal landscape surrounding the Jan. 6 riot, where prosecutors have achieved convictions against numerous defendants and identified additional suspects through online efforts.
As the legal proceedings continue, the repercussions of the Capitol riot resonate across the justice system. Ackerman’s guilty plea underscores the accountability individuals face for their actions on that turbulent day, serving as a stark reminder of the consequences of participating in such unlawful activities.
Read More of this Story at www.nbcnews.com – 2024-04-11 23:11:55
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