A Washington state man, Taylor James Johnatakis, was sentenced to more than seven years in prison for his role in orchestrating a mob's attack on police officers guarding the U.S. Capitol during the Jan. 6, 2021, riot. District Judge Royce Lamberth described Johnatakis as a leader who played a significant role in the assault, directing other rioters on how to overpower officers with the use of a megaphone. Johnatakis, who represented himself in court, has expressed rhetoric inspired by the anti-government "sovereign citizen" movement and asked the judge questions during his sentencing, including whether he repented for his sins.

Prosecutors recommended a nine-year prison sentence for Johnatakis, highlighting his leadership in organizing and encouraging the assault on officers at the Capitol. Johnatakis, a self-employed septic systems installer, was one of the first rioters to chase police officers retreating up stairs outside the Capitol, shouting and gesturing for others to join in the attack. He was convicted of felony charges, including obstruction of the Jan. 6 joint session of Congress that certified Joe Biden's 2020 electoral victory, assault, and civil disorder.

Despite being jailed since November 2023, Johnatakis has not shown sincere remorse or accepted responsibility for his actions on Jan. 6, with prosecutors noting that he has portrayed himself as a persecuted victim. Judge Lamberth emphasized that there is no room for political violence in the country and ordered the clerk of court's office to send copies of his prepared remarks during the sentencing hearing to Johnatakis' supporters who may not be fully aware of the extent of his crimes. Over 1,350 people have been charged with Capitol riot-related federal crimes, with more than 800 sentenced to imprisonment ranging from several days to 22 years.