Kenneth Joseph Owen Thomas, an Ohio man, was convicted of assault charges and other offenses for his role in the storming of the U.S. Capitol in January 6, 2021. Federal prosecutors described Thomas as a “one-man misinformation machine” for using his social media platforms to spread false narratives about the riot. Thomas was sentenced to nearly five years in prison, as well as ordered to pay a $20,000 fine and $2,000 in restitution.
Thomas’ attorneys expressed that he takes “full and complete responsibility” for his actions and that he is “brutally aware of the seriousness of his conduct” during the Capitol riot. They also pointed out that none of the officers contacted by Thomas on January 6 reported any physical pain or injuries attributed to him. However, prosecutors emphasized that Thomas physically and verbally attacked police lines and participated in the violence during the riot. With over 1,200 people charged with Capitol riot-related federal crimes, the sentencing of Thomas has brought attention to the ongoing repercussions of the destructive event.
