(MENAFN) In a significant development related to the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol, a Texas militia member, Donald Hazard, has been sentenced to almost five years in prison for his participation in the violent assault on police officers during the infamous mob attack. U.S. District Judge Randolph Moss delivered the sentence of four years and nine months in prison, to be followed by three months of supervised release, as recommended by federal prosecutors. Hazard had previously pleaded guilty to an assault charge in February, leading to his sentencing.
Hazard, aged 44 and hailing from Hurst, Texas, was affiliated with a militia group called the Patriot Boys of North Texas. Lucas Denney, who self-proclaimed himself as the group's president, appointed Hazard as the sergeant-at-arms. Prosecutors revealed that Denney had encouraged Hazard to acquire weapons and protective gear, as well as recruit like-minded individuals to join them in Washington, D.C., on the day of the Capitol riot.
According to court filings, Hazard demonstrated a fervent desire for violence on January 6. He was observed wearing a tactical vest and a helmet adorned with the image of the Confederate battle flag, symbolizing his alignment with extremist ideologies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benet Kearney, representing the Justice Department, highlighted Hazard's eagerness for violence in a court filing, underscoring the seriousness of his actions.
The sentence imposed on Hazard reflects the severity of his involvement in the attack and its consequences. The assault on law enforcement officers during the Capitol riot shocked the nation and led to widespread condemnation. Hazard's active participation in the violent breach, which caused significant injuries to one police officer, warranted a substantial prison term according to the prosecution's recommendations.
The sentencing of Hazard serves as a reminder that the legal system is actively holding individuals accountable for their roles in the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. As the investigation into the events continues, it underscores the commitment to justice and the protection of democratic institutions. The outcome also reinforces the consequences that those who engaged in violence and insurrection will face under the law.
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