A Washington state man has been sentenced to more than seven years in prison for his involvement in the attack on police officers at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. The man, who led a mob using a megaphone, was identified as a key figure in orchestrating the assault.
During the sentencing, U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth highlighted videos that captured the man, referred to as Johnatakis, playing a leadership role during the attack. The judge described how Johnatakis led other rioters in charging against a police line, giving commands over his megaphone, and providing directions for overpowering officers.
Johnatakis, who represented himself with legal counsel on standby, has shown rhetoric influenced by the anti-government 'sovereign citizen' movement. Despite asking questions related to repentance during the sentencing, the judge emphasized the seriousness of his actions and handed down a sentence of seven years and three months in prison.
Prosecutors had recommended a nine-year prison term for Johnatakis, emphasizing his role as a leader who organized and encouraged the assault on officers at the Capitol. Following a trial in Washington, D.C., Johnatakis was convicted on multiple felony charges.
On the day of the attack, Johnatakis was seen with a megaphone at the Capitol, where he shouted instructions to the crowd of Trump supporters. He was among the first rioters to confront police officers and played an active role in escalating the violence.
Despite being arrested in February 2021, Johnatakis has shown little remorse or acceptance of responsibility for his actions. Prosecutors highlighted his lack of genuine remorse and attempts to portray himself as a victim.
With over 1,350 individuals charged in connection to the Capitol riot, Johnatakis is one of many facing legal consequences for their involvement. The sentencing of over 800 individuals involved in the riot has ranged from several days to 22 years in prison.
