Trump Supporter Charged with Firearm Offenses During Capitol Riot
John Banuelos, a Trump supporter, faces charges related to firearm offenses, trespassing, and interfering with law enforcement officers during the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. Prosecutors allege that Banuelos fired shots into the air from scaffolding on the west side of the Capitol while wearing a “Trump 2020” cowboy hat, with a pistol visible in his waistband.
Presence of Firearms Among Capitol Rioters
The belief that none of the rioters at the Capitol on January 6 were armed has been debunked by the Justice Department’s investigation. Over 1,300 individuals have been charged in connection with the attack, with evidence showing that some rioters carried firearms during the incident, contrary to popular misconceptions.
Rioters Convicted of Carrying Firearms
Guy Wesley Reffitt, Christopher Alberts, and Mark Mazza are among the rioters who faced charges for carrying firearms during the Capitol riot. Reffitt, a Texas militiaman, was sentenced to over seven years in prison for his involvement. Alberts, a former Virginia National Guard member, also received a seven-year prison term. Mazza, who brought multiple firearms to the Capitol, was sentenced to five years in prison.
Legal Consequences for Banuelos’ Actions
While the specific type of pistol carried by Banuelos on January 6 was not disclosed, prosecutors highlighted that he was not licensed to possess it. Banuelos faces charges for carrying and discharging a firearm on Capitol grounds. After firing the shots, he concealed the weapon and blended back into the crowd.
Read More of this Story at www.nytimes.com – 2024-03-09 00:01:27
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