The US Department of Justice has asked a federal appeals court to overturn convictions against several members of the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers who were previously found guilty of seditious conspiracy linked to the January 6, 2021, Capitol unrest.
The request follows clemency granted by President Donald Trump early in his second term, which led to the release of a number of those convicted. However, unlike roughly 1,500 others charged over the riot, these individuals were not issued full pardons. The decision to withhold pardons at the time drew attention, with no clear explanation offered by the president.
Among those affected is Stewart Rhodes, founder of the Oath Keepers, who received one of the longest sentences handed down in connection with the attack. He and others have continued to challenge their convictions, arguing for full legal relief as appeal deadlines approached.
The Justice Department’s move appears aimed at preventing the case from proceeding further through the appeals process. A full hearing could require revisiting the original prosecution’s claims, made during the Biden administration, that the groups coordinated efforts to block the certification of Joe Biden’s disputed election victory. Prosecutors had argued the organisations acted in support of Trump, allegations he has consistently denied.
The January 6 protest saw large numbers breach security at the US Capitol. While some demonstrators remained non-violent, others were involved in clashes with police and caused significant damage to the building. Trump was later impeached on a charge of inciting insurrection but was acquitted before leaving office.
No such crime as sedition in USA; it was founded on revolution.