Background

On Thursday, Joe Biggs, a leader of the Proud Boys and a key figure in the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, was sentenced to 17 years in federal prison. This is one of the longest sentences given to anyone involved in the Capitol riot cases. The record stands at 18 years, given to Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes.

Prosecution’s Case

The government had sought a 33-year sentence for Biggs, arguing that he played a significant role in inciting and leading the violent attack on the Capitol. Prosecutors highlighted Biggs’ military background as an Army veteran and his prominence as a correspondent for the conspiracy website Infowars, which they claimed he used to advocate for political violence.

Charges and Verdict

In May, Biggs was convicted of several charges, including seditious conspiracy, obstruction of an official proceeding, and destruction of government property. He went to trial alongside four other Proud Boys members, all of whom were also convicted of felonies.

Personal Apology and Emotional Testimony

During his sentencing, Biggs expressed remorse for his actions on Jan. 6 and apologized for his rhetoric. He explained that he had been dealing with personal issues relating to his daughter being molested by a family member, and that his inflammatory language was a misguided way of coping. Biggs vowed to distance himself from extremist groups and expressed his desire to focus on being involved in his daughter’s PTA.

Furthermore, Biggs became emotional as he mentioned his daughter, emphasizing that Jan. 6 would be his last event with the Proud Boys.

Prosecution’s Argument and Defense

During the hearing, the prosecution stressed the serious nature of the Proud Boys’ actions on Jan. 6 and emphasized the impact it had on American democracy. They highlighted the intention of the Proud Boys to disrupt the peaceful transfer of power and create fear among Americans participating in future elections and events.

Biggs’ defense attorney acknowledged his client’s involvement in the crimes committed on Jan. 6 but argued that they had been overstated. He contended that Biggs’ political speech should not be used as evidence of criminal intent and urged caution in interpreting the impact of speech.

Judge’s Statement

Despite applying the terrorism enhancement to Biggs, the judge, Kelly, acknowledged that it overstated his conduct. He clarified that his role was not to label Biggs as a terrorist, but rather to address the harm caused by the events of Jan. 6. The judge lamented the breakdown of the peaceful transfer of power, a crucial tradition that had been cherished among Americans.