Zachary Alam Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for Roles in US Capitol Riot
Zachary Alam, who stormed the U.S. Capitol and smashed glass panels on a door, moments before a police officer fatally shot another rioter climbing through the opening, has been sentenced to eight years in prison.
Judge Calls Alam’s Actions “Delusional” and Not Those of a Patriot
Before learning his sentence, Alam said he and all other Jan. 6 rioters should get a “pardon of patriotism.” He told U.S. District Judge Dabney Friedrich that he doesn’t want a “second-class pardon.”
“I want a full pardon with all the benefits that come with it,” Alam added.
Judge Friedrich didn’t respond to Alam’s remarks about a pardon. She described him as one of the most violent and aggressive rioters, saying his “full-throttled attack” on democratic institutions was not those of a patriot.
January 6, 2021, Siege
Congressional members and staffers were hiding in the House chamber during the siege when Alam used a helmet to breach the barricaded Speaker’s Lobby door panels. Ashli Babbitt, a 35-year-old Air Force veteran from San Diego, was shot and killed by an officer as she tried to climb through the shattered glass.
Jury Convicted Alam of 10 Counts
A jury convicted Alam last year of 10 counts, including a felony charge that he obstructed the congressional certification of President Joe Biden’s 2020 electoral victory.
Prosecution and Defense Arguments
Prosecutors recommended a prison sentence of 11 years and four months for Alam. Defense attorney Steven Metcalf described Alam as a troubled loner who “just wanted to fit in somewhere because he has been rejected by everyone else in his life.” Metcalf sought a prison term of four years and nine months for Alam.
Consequences of the Capitol Riot
Over 1,500 people have been charged with Capitol riot-related federal crimes. More than 1,000 convicted rioters have been sentenced, with over 650 receiving prison time ranging from a few days to 22 years.
Conclusion
Zachary Alam’s sentence of eight years in prison is a reminder of the severe consequences of participating in violent and destructive behavior. While some may argue that the rioters were motivated by a desire to “fit in” or to believe they were doing the right thing, the actions they took were illegal and put innocent lives at risk. It is essential to ensure that those who engage in such behavior are held accountable and that the rule of law is upheld.
FAQs
Q: What was Zachary Alam’s role in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot?
A: Alam stormed the U.S. Capitol and smashed glass panels on a door, moments before a police officer fatally shot another rioter climbing through the opening.
Q: What did Alam say about his actions during the riot?
A: Alam said he and all other Jan. 6 rioters should get a “pardon of patriotism.” He told the judge he doesn’t want a “second-class pardon” and wants a full pardon with all the benefits that come with it.
Q: What was the outcome of the jury trial?
A: A jury convicted Alam last year of 10 counts, including a felony charge that he obstructed the congressional certification of President Joe Biden’s 2020 electoral victory.
Q: How many people have been charged with Capitol riot-related federal crimes?
A: Over 1,500 people have been charged with Capitol riot-related federal crimes.
Q: How many people have been sentenced for participating in the Capitol riot?
A: More than 1,000 convicted rioters have been sentenced, with over 650 receiving prison time ranging from a few days to 22 years.
