Tennessee man convicted for Jan. 6 riot found guilty of plotting to kill FBI agents who investigated him
Tennessee Man Found Guilty of Plotting Murder of FBI Agents
In a chilling case that has captured national attention, a Tennessee man has been convicted of plotting to kill the FBI agents who investigated his role in the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol. A federal jury in Nashville found the man guilty of two counts of solicitation to commit a crime of violence and one count of threatening to assault and murder federal law enforcement officers.
The defendant, whose identity has been withheld due to legal protocols, was initially investigated for his involvement in the January 6 riot that saw scores of Donald Trump supporters storm the Capitol building. The subsequent investigation led to a more sinister plot, as it was unveiled that he planned to murder the FBI agents assigned to his case.
A String of Threats and Murder Plots
During the course of the trial, the prosecution presented a series of evidence showcasing the defendant’s intent to harm the federal officers. This included recorded phone calls and messages where he explicitly stated his plans to kill the agents. The defendant allegedly sought the help of fellow members of a right-wing extremist group to carry out the murders. 
“The defendant planned to launch a deadly attack on the very people who were investigating him,” said the U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee. “His actions not only threatened the lives of law enforcement but also undermined the rule of law.”
The jury heard testimony from several witnesses, including the targeted FBI agents who detailed the fear and anxiety caused by the threats.
Connection to January 6 Riot
The defendant was initially brought to the attention of authorities due to his involvement in the violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on January 6. He was among the group of rioters who stormed the Capitol building, leading to the deaths of five people and causing extensive damage to the historic structure.
Following an investigation into his role in the riot, the man was charged and subsequently released on bail. It was during this period of release that he began plotting to kill the agents who had investigated him.
Sentencing and Repercussions
The man now faces a significant prison sentence following his conviction. Each count of solicitation to commit a crime of violence carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, while the charge of threatening to assault and murder federal law enforcement officers carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years.
This case highlights the ongoing threats posed by extremist groups in the wake of the January 6 Capitol riot. Law enforcement agencies across the country continue to investigate and prosecute individuals and groups involved in the riot and subsequent threats against officials.
“This conviction underscores our commitment to hold accountable those who seek to harm or intimidate law enforcement officers,” said the Director of the FBI. “We will continue to aggressively pursue and prosecute those who threaten the safety and well-being of our agents and our communities.”
