Jay Johnston, an actor best known for his role on the animated comedy show “Bob’s Burgers,” has pleaded guilty to charges related to his involvement in the January 2021 US Capitol riot. Johnston, 54, admitted to a felony count of civil disorder and now faces a maximum of five years in prison. He was released on a $25,000 bond after his initial court appearance in June 2023.
Johnston was also charged with obstruction of officers during civil disorder, unlawful entry on restricted buildings or grounds, and impeding passage through Capitol grounds. Court documents reveal that Johnston joined a mob of protesters attacking police, and video footage captured him taking a shield from an officer and using it to push back law enforcement. He also signaled for other rioters to come towards the Capitol entrance.
The FBI identified Johnston through photos published online and confirmed his presence at the Capitol through text messages he sent, acknowledging his involvement in the riot. Airline records showed that Johnston had traveled from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C., on January 4, 2021, and returned on January 7, 2021.
Johnston, who has also appeared on “Mr. Show with Bob and David” and “Arrested Development,” is scheduled to be sentenced on October 7 by US District Judge Carl Nichols.
On the same day, Dana Jean Bell, a 65-year-old woman from Texas, pleaded guilty to assaulting a police officer during the Capitol attack. Bell was also shown on video assaulting a local journalist. She faces a maximum sentence of eight years in prison, with her sentencing set for October 17.
The Capitol riot has led to over 1,000 people being convicted or pleading guilty to federal crimes, with many receiving prison sentences ranging from seven days to 18 years.
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