Hollywood actor Jay Johnston was sentenced to 12 months and a day in federal prison for his role in the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. Federal prosecutors had sought 18 months for Johnston, who was identified as a participant in the chaos before his arrest. Johnston pleaded guilty to obstructing officers during a civil disorder.
Prosecutors said Johnston spent about 10 minutes in the lower west tunnel of the Capitol during the attack, participating in violent acts such as helping rioters wash their eyes, using a stolen police riot shield, and pushing against officers, resulting in the injury of Officer Daniel Hodges. Despite his involvement, Johnston downplayed the events in messages to friends and family.
Johnston’s lawyer argued that his role was overstated due to his status as a Hollywood actor, leading to professional consequences such as being blacklisted by the industry. Since the attack, Johnston has worked as a handyman, a far cry from his previous success in film and television.
More than 1,500 people have been arrested in connection with the Capitol attack, with over 1,100 convictions so far, including varying periods of incarceration. Additional arrests continue to take place, targeting individuals involved in assaulting officers during the attack. Johnston’s case serves as a prominent example of the legal consequences faced by those who participated in the Capitol riot.
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