Therese Borgerding’s recent conviction on a felony charge related to her involvement in the Capitol riot of January 6, 2021, has sent shockwaves through legal circles. The jury’s decision, announced on April 29, 2024, represents a significant step in the ongoing legal aftermath of that tumultuous day.
Borgerding, aged 61, faced a jury trial and was found guilty on five counts, including a felony charge of civil disorder and four misdemeanors. Her actions during the Capitol breach, which included moving metal barricades and entering restricted grounds, formed the basis of the prosecution’s case against her.
The trial, which gained attention due to Borgerding’s association with the QAnon conspiracy theory, saw her defense attempting to introduce a video allegedly showing a U.S. Capitol Police officer allowing demonstrators to ascend the Capitol steps. However, the presiding U.S. District Judge Timothy Kelly ruled against admitting the video as evidence, a decision that may have impacted the trial’s outcome.
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The conviction of Borgerding highlights the serious legal consequences faced by individuals involved in the Capitol riot. She now faces a potential sentence of up to eight years in prison, along with supervised release and fines, with the felony charge carrying a maximum term of six years.
This verdict follows another significant sentencing related to the Capitol breach, with John Sullivan, a Utah man convicted in connection with the events of January 6, receiving a six-year prison term. Sullivan, found guilty of obstructing an official proceeding and illegal possession of a dangerous weapon on Capitol grounds, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth.
These legal outcomes underscore the gravity of participating in acts of violence and insurrection. The convictions and sentences handed down to individuals like Therese Borgerding and John Sullivan demonstrate the justice system’s commitment to holding those responsible for the events of January 6 accountable for their actions.
As the legal aftermath of the Capitol riot continues, these cases serve as a reminder of the enduring impact of that historic day and the ongoing efforts to uphold the rule of law.
