Jan 6 US Capitol riot: Key points from first day of Oath Keepers trial and opening statements
he founder of the Oath Keepers extremist group and four associates face felony charges, including seditious conspiracy. They allegedly planned for an “armed rebellion” to stop the transfer of US presidential power from Donald Trump to Joe Biden.
By ET Spotlight Special |
Agencies
With the historic case brought against Oath Keepers accused of plotting to attack the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, prosecutors framed up how the jury should think about the allegations with an hour-plus opening statement that kicked off the trial in earnest. Five, including Stewart Rhodes, face felony charges, who are the members of Oath Keepers, a far-right militia. They are on trial in Washington DC federal courthouse.
FAQs
Who is the Judge in the Oath Keepers case?
Judge Amit Mehta is the Judge in the case.
What is the Oath Keepers case about?
The trial is brought against the Oath Keepers, accused of plotting the attack on the US Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.
Justice Department's Opening Statements
The opening statements by the prosecutors were more than an hour long. Some of the points made were:- The five alleged militia members and Stewart Rhodes, its leader, are on trial.
- They are charged with seditious conspiracy, a rare charge, and other expenses.
- The five accused have pleaded not guilty.
- Featured messages and communications between the accused and the prosecution stated they said and wrote what they planned to do.
- They used maps and charts to help the jury follow along with video clips that captured the accused's actions.
- The jurors were given individual screens to view the evidence.
Defense Statements
- The opening defense statements were made by a lawyer representing Stewart Rhodes. He said that:
- The jurors may not like what they heard and saw the defendants do, but they would see evidence that they did not have any part in the bulk of the violence.
- His client was highly patriotic and was there to do security for events.
- There was no evidence for a plan as alleged by the prosecution.
Judge’s Statements
Judge Amit Mehta stressed that the jury was completely unbiased and that there were no preconceived notions among the jury concerning the Oath Keppers and the defendants. He denied the defendant's request to transfer the case to Virginia.FAQs
Who is the Judge in the Oath Keepers case?
Judge Amit Mehta is the Judge in the case.
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What is the Oath Keepers case about?
The trial is brought against the Oath Keepers, accused of plotting the attack on the US Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.
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