Judge Sends Warning to Jan. 6 Rioter Supporters: Political Violence Must Not Be Normalized

In a rare move, a Reagan-appointed judge addresses Jan. 6 rioter's supporters directly, emphasizing the dangers of condoning political violence.

A Republican-appointed judge plans to send a written response to supporters of a Jan. 6 rioter, warning against the normalization of political violence.
The judge sentenced Taylor James Johnatakis to over seven years in prison for leading an attack on police during the Capitol riot.
The sentencing reflects a broader judicial concern over increasing public acceptance of the Jan. 6 events, fueled by former President Trump's rhetoric.
Judges across the federal judiciary have been vocal about the dangers of rewriting the history of Jan. 6 and the threat it poses to democracy.
The judge's action is part of an ongoing effort to educate the public on the severe consequences of political violence and the importance of upholding the rule of law.