Taylor James Johnatakis, a man from Washington state, used a megaphone to direct a mob attacking police officers at the US Capitol.
He has been sentenced to over seven years in prison for his role in the events.
Captured on Video
US District Judge Royce Lamberth mentioned that videos showed Johnatakis in a leadership position during the January 6 riot.
The footage captured him actively directing other rioters and playing a significant part in the violence against police lines, showcasing his involvement beyond just participation.
A Leader Among Rioters
The judge stated, “In any angry mob, there are leaders and there are followers. Mr. Johnatakis was a leader. He knew what he was doing that day,” emphasizing the pivotal role Johnatakis played during the riot.
This distinction marks him as more than just a participant, underlining his active engagement in the events of that day.
Questioning Repentance
During his sentencing, Johnatakis, representing himself with an attorney on standby, asked the judge, “Does the record reflect that I repent in my sins?”
This question suggests an attempt to express remorse, yet the judge dismissed his query, focusing on the legal proceedings.
From Septic Systems to the Capitol
Johnatakis, a self-employed septic systems installer, was recommended by prosecutors to receive a nine-year prison sentence.
They highlighted his leadership, organization, and encouragement of the assault on Capitol officers on January 6, indicating his significant departure from his professional life to engage in the riot.
Conviction and Sentencing
After a trial last year in Washington DC, a jury convicted Taylor James Johnatakis of felony charges, including obstruction of the January 6 joint session of Congress and assault and civil disorder charges.
His conviction led to the sentence of seven years and three months, reflecting the seriousness of his actions during the riot.
The Rally That Led to Riot
Johnatakis was seen with a megaphone strapped to his back, marching to the Capitol from a rally.
He used the megaphone to amplify his message, declaring, “It’s over. Michael Pence has voted against the president. We are down to the nuclear option,” rallying supporters into action.
Initiating the Assault
CBS News reports that Johnatakis chased police officers, signaling other rioters to prepare for an attack.
His shouts of “Go!” encouraged the mob to push a metal barricade against a line of police officers, demonstrating his role in escalating the violence.
Social Media Proclamation
The Guardian reports that after leaving the Capitol, Johnatakis declared on social media, “The crime is complete,” indicating a sense of accomplishment in his actions during the riot.
He was then eventually arrested in February 2021.
Part of a Larger Group
Johnatakis is among over 1,350 people charged with federal crimes related to the Capitol riot.
Over 800 individuals have been sentenced, with sentences ranging from several days to 22 years.
Defiance in Court
A related case saw Marc Bru, a member of the Proud Boys extremist group, sentenced to six years after he insulted the judge, demonstrating a lack of remorse.
His defiant statements in court echo a broader sentiment among some participants of the riot, facing the legal consequences of their actions.
A Reflection on Justice
The sentencing of individuals like Taylor James Johnatakis and Marc Bru serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of participating in and leading violent actions against democratic institutions.
These sentences illustrate the legal system’s response to the events of January 6, holding individuals accountable for their roles in the riot.
