Brazil’s Supreme Court orders house arrest for former President Bolsonaro, a move that’s definitely capturing global attention. It’s hard not to be struck by the stark contrast in how Brazil has handled its own version of a January 6th-like incident, particularly when compared to the US. The reports of buses being utilized to collect rioters and transport them directly to the police station for immediate processing paint a picture of decisive action. It’s a stark contrast to the complexities and delays we’ve seen elsewhere. It makes you wonder, doesn’t it, if that level of swiftness and control could’ve altered the course of events?… Continue reading
Edward Kelley, who received a pardon for his involvement in the January 6th Capitol attack, has been sentenced to life in prison for plotting to attack FBI agents and incite a “civil war.” Prosecutors revealed Kelley created a “kill list” of law enforcement officials and distributed it to a co-conspirator. Despite the pardon, which did not cover the separate conspiracy case, Kelley was convicted on conspiracy charges, and the court determined he posed a continued threat. This case highlights the consequences of actions that followed the January 6th attack and emphasizes that pardons do not absolve individuals of all crimes.
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In a significant development, a January 6th defendant, Edward Kelley, received a life sentence for plotting to murder FBI special agents who investigated him. Despite a pardon by former President Trump, a federal judge ruled the pardon did not extend to Kelley’s murder plot. Prosecutors highlighted Kelley’s lack of remorse and outlined his detailed plans to target law enforcement, including forming a militia and conducting drills. While Kelley’s lawyer argued for a lesser sentence, pointing out that no one was directly harmed, the court ultimately imposed the severe penalty, with a co-conspirator, Austin Carter, awaiting sentencing next month.
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The Independent is dedicated to providing on-the-ground reporting on critical issues, like reproductive rights and the January 6th events, with a commitment to presenting factual information to the public. A recent example of their dedication is the coverage of Pamela Hemphill, a January 6 defendant who refused a pardon from Donald Trump. Hemphill’s decision, and the resulting letter of admiration from former Vice President Mike Pence, highlights the complexities of the events surrounding the January 6th insurrection. The Independent aims to deliver this content without paywalls, making quality journalism accessible to everyone and funded by those who can afford to contribute.
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A federal jury has awarded $500,000 to the widow and estate of a police officer who died by suicide shortly after defending the U.S. Capitol on January 6th. The eight-member jury found David Walls-Kaufman liable for assaulting Officer Jeffrey Smith, awarding the widow and estate for damages. The encounter, which took place during the riot, was captured on the officer’s body camera. Walls-Kaufman, who served a 60-day prison sentence for a riot-related misdemeanor, denied assaulting the officer.
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Former Vice President Pence condemned President Trump’s deployment of troops to quell anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles, asserting that violence against law enforcement is unacceptable and those responsible must be held accountable. He further criticized Trump’s pardoning of January 6th rioters who assaulted police officers. Pence also criticized President Putin’s actions in Ukraine, suggesting the current administration should not seek advice from him regarding the Israel-Iran conflict. This multifaceted critique highlights Pence’s sharp disagreement with Trump’s handling of both domestic and international issues.
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Two Capitol Police officers sued House Speaker Mike Johnson for failing to install a legally mandated plaque honoring officers who defended the Capitol on January 6, 2021. The lawsuit alleges that Johnson’s inaction, despite the existence of the plaque and a 2022 law with a one-year deadline, is a deliberate attempt to rewrite history and minimize the events of that day. This refusal contrasts sharply with the numerous honors bestowed upon former President Trump by some Republicans. The officers’ attorney argues this omission encourages a false narrative of the January 6th attack and disrespects the officers’ sacrifice. A Democratic Representative is publicly supporting the officers by displaying the plaque design.
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Two Capitol Police officers, Daniel Hodges and Harry Dunn, filed a lawsuit to force Congress to install a memorial honoring law enforcement injured during the January 6th attack. This legal action stems from Congress’s failure to comply with a 2022 law mandating the memorial’s placement, despite the Architect of the Capitol stating House Speaker Mike Johnson’s lack of instruction as the reason for the delay. The officers, who suffered significant physical and psychological harm during the riot, argue this inaction reflects an attempt to rewrite the history of the event. The lawsuit contends that the refusal to honor the officers’ service exacerbates their existing injuries.
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FBI Director Kash Patel’s assertion that assaulting police will result in jail time drew significant online mockery. Critics highlighted the stark contrast with the Trump administration’s pardons for January 6th rioters, many of whom violently attacked law enforcement. This perceived hypocrisy was further emphasized by the planned compensation to the family of a deceased rioter. Patel’s previous distancing from the pardons during his confirmation hearing failed to mitigate the criticism. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s similarly insensitive remarks added to the controversy, prompting concerns about potential military mobilization.
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The Proud Boys leaders’ demand for $100 million in compensation over their January 6th prosecutions is a truly astonishing development. The audacity of this claim, following their convictions for seditious conspiracy and other charges related to the attack on the Capitol, is staggering. It’s difficult to comprehend how individuals who participated in an attempt to overturn a democratic election could even contemplate such a lawsuit.
The sheer nerve involved is breathtaking. These individuals were convicted, their actions were undeniably aimed at undermining democratic processes, and yet they seek financial reward from the very government they sought to overthrow. It’s a blatant attempt to profit from sedition, a complete disregard for the rule of law, and an insult to every American who believes in the principles of democracy.… Continue reading
Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker