Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison for Attacking U.S. Capitol
A man has been sentenced to five years in prison for his involvement in the attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. Rodney Milstreed, a resident of Finksburg, Maryland, injected steroids and armed himself with a wooden club disguised as a flagpole in preparation for the attack. Prosecutors stated that Milstreed had been taking steroids in order to be physically ready for what he believed would be a hand-to-hand combat situation.
Attack Videos Shown in Court
During the trial, videos of Milstreed’s attacks on the Capitol were presented to the court. Milstreed expressed remorse for his actions and acknowledged the seriousness of his conduct. However, the judge emphasized that the attack was a very serious offense.
Injured Capitol Police Officer Testifies
Capitol Police Officer Devan Gowdy, who suffered a concussion during the attack, spoke to the judge about the lasting impact of the event. Gowdy stated that the effects of the domestic terrorist attack would never leave him and that Milstreed would always be seen as a domestic terrorist and traitor for his actions.
Prosecutors’ Sentencing Recommendation
Prosecutors recommended a prison sentence of six years and six months for Milstreed. They highlighted Milstreed’s angry social media posts leading up to the attack and the discovery of weapons and illegal steroids in his possession.
Remorse and Learnings
Milstreed, in a letter addressed to the judge, expressed his understanding of the wrongfulness of his actions and stated that he has learned from his mistakes. He acknowledged that there are peaceful and appropriate ways to express concerns or grievances with the government.
Details of Milstreed’s Arrest
Milstreed was apprehended in Colorado in May 2022 and pleaded guilty to assault charges and possessing an unregistered firearm. A search of his Maryland home and Colorado hotel room revealed weapons, ammunition, and vials of illegal steroids.
Milstreed’s Involvement in the Attack
Milstreed actively participated in the attack on the Capitol, being “front and center” as rioters clashed with police. He threw his wooden club at an officer, causing a concussion, and threw a smoke grenade at police. Milstreed also attacked an AP photographer, shoving and threatening him.
Impact on the Photographer and Other Rioters
The AP photographer who was attacked by Milstreed testified about the traumatic experience and the lasting effects it had on him. Milstreed boasted about the assault on social media, sharing photos and expressing satisfaction. Other rioters involved in the attack were also charged with assaulting the same photographer.
Sentencing and Ongoing Prosecutions
Milstreed’s prison sentence of five years adds to the growing number of individuals being held accountable for their actions on January 6. Over 1,100 people have been charged with Jan. 6-related federal crimes, with more than 650 already sentenced. The attacks resulted in over 100 police officers being injured.
Read More of this Story at apnews.com – 2023-09-22 22:48:00
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