In a bid for freedom, Matthew Bledsoe and Sandra Weyer, both convicted for their roles in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, have submitted pleas to a federal judge, urging release pending the outcome of the Supreme Court’s review of the controversial “obstruction of an official proceeding” charge.
The Supreme Court’s decision to grant a hearing for Fischer v. United States on December 13, 2023, has thrust the spotlight back onto the contentious felony charge, a linchpin in the legal battles stemming from the chaotic events on January 6.
Challenging the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) interpretation of the obstruction charge, Joseph Fischer’s appeal could potentially have widespread implications for those facing similar allegations.
The charge, focused on the disruption of the Electoral College certification, has become a focal point in legal debates stemming from the Capitol breach.
Bledsoe and Weyer, now vying for release, believe that a favorable Supreme Court ruling could pave the way for a reduction in their sentences, mirroring the hopes of many implicated in the riot.
In the case of Matthew Bledsoe, sentenced to 48 months in prison, his legal team argues that a rejection of the DOJ’s interpretation of the obstruction charge could significantly reduce his sentence, possibly resulting in less time served than his current incarceration.
Bledsoe’s conviction encompasses obstruction of an official proceeding and four misdemeanors linked to the events of January 6.
Similarly, Sandra Weyer’s legal representatives assert that she fulfills the criteria for release. Stressing that Weyer poses no flight or safety risk, they argue that she raises a substantial legal question that, if resolved in her favor, could lead to a reduced imprisonment sentence.
Notably, Weyer’s attorneys contend that her case stands out from others sentenced under obstruction charges, underscoring her non-violent actions during the riot. While Weyer entered the Capitol building, spending approximately 11 minutes searching for her brother, her legal team emphasizes that she did not engage in violent or obstructive conduct.
They argue that her mere presence does not demonstrate active obstruction of the joint session, positioning her as a strong candidate for release pending the Supreme Court’s decision.
Previously accused by the DOJ of being among the first rioters to breach police barricades on the East Front and pushing past officers after entering the Capitol, Weyer’s charges, announced in September, include obstruction of an official proceeding, as well as misdemeanor charges related to entering restricted areas and disruptive conduct in the Capitol building.
