Oath Keeper Sentenced to Probation After Pleading Guilty to Seditious Conspiracy

Army veteran Joshua James avoided prison after cooperating with prosecutors in the January 6 Capitol riot investigation.

Joshua James, a former leader in the Oath Keepers militia group, received three years of probation, including six months in a reentry center and six months of home detention, for his role in the January 6 Capitol attack.
James was the first person to plead guilty to seditious conspiracy in connection with the Capitol riot and provided key information that aided in the convictions of other Oath Keepers members, including group leader Stewart Rhodes.
Prosecutors initially recommended a prison sentence but acknowledged James' extensive cooperation, which included testimony about the group's plans to use force to disrupt the peaceful transfer of power.
Judge Amit Mehta highlighted James' remorse and military service, calling him a 'true American hero' while emphasizing the fragility of democracy exposed by the January 6 events.
James admitted to leading Oath Keepers in the Capitol breach, assaulting police officers, and helping coordinate the group's 'quick reaction force,' which stockpiled weapons near Washington, D.C.