A federal judge has ruled that the Department of Justice must return the spear and horned helmet worn by Jacob Chansley, also known as the “QAnon Shaman,” during the January 6th Capitol riots. Judge Royce Lambert made the decision on Monday, stating that the government failed to establish the need for these items as evidence or seek their forfeiture.
Chansley, 37, gained notoriety as the face of the riots after images of him went viral, showcasing his painted face and distinctive attire. The government described his outfit as a “horned coyote-tail headdress” and noted that he carried a six-foot pole with an American flag and a metal spearhead attached to it. It remains unclear if the megaphone he was seen holding was also seized or returned.
Being among the first rioters to enter the Capitol building, Chansley allegedly directed profanities towards former Vice President Mike Pence as he was apprehended by law enforcement. The Department of Justice initially argued that Chansley’s spear and helmet should remain in federal custody, citing their use to project strength during the assault on the US Capitol. However, Judge Lambert rejected this argument, emphasizing that ample documented footage of Chansley at the Capitol rendered his property of little utility for investigation or prosecution purposes.
Chansley filed a motion in February 2023 to have his belongings returned. During his sentencing in 2021, he expressed regret for his actions and later disclosed that he no longer supports former President Donald Trump. Following his early release from prison, Chansley, who suffers from mental health issues, resided in a Residential Reentry Center in Phoenix, Arizona, according to his former lawyer, Albert Watkins.
The trial of French actor Gerard Depardieu on sexual assault charges has commenced in Paris,…
Iran has carried out the execution of German-Iranian dissident Jamshid Sharmahd, who was convicted of…
Former "Bob's Burgers" voice actor, Jay Johnston, has been sentenced to one year and one…
German Citizen Executed in Iran for Leading Terror Operations Jamshid Sharmahd, a German citizen of…
Comedian Jay Johnston, known for his acting credits in Hollywood, has been sentenced to a…
A Fresno police sergeant was ambushed and struck by multiple rounds of gunfire on Saturday…
View Comments
1. Document and preserve evidence: If you find yourself in a situation where you witness or are involved in a crime, it's important to document and preserve any evidence you come across. This could include taking photographs, recording videos, or writing down any relevant details. This evidence can be crucial in legal proceedings.
2. Cooperate with law enforcement: If you have information or evidence related to a crime, it's important to cooperate with law enforcement authorities. This includes providing them with any evidence you have