Rachel Marie Powell, the Pennsylvania woman known as the “bullhorn lady” for her role in directing rioters at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, has been sentenced to more than four years in prison. Powell was convicted on all nine counts, including obstruction of an official proceeding, destruction of government property, entering a restricted area with a weapon, and engaging in violence on Capitol grounds. U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth handed down the sentence after Powell waived her right to a jury trial.
The Justice Department sought an eight-year prison term for Powell, citing her violent altercations with law enforcement, destruction of property, and lack of remorse. Powell, on the other hand, requested three years of probation. Ultimately, Judge Lamberth sentenced her to 57 months in prison, followed by 36 months on supervised release. Powell is also required to pay $2,753 in restitution and a $5,000 fine.
During the Capitol insurrection, Powell was seen using a bullhorn to direct others on how to breach the building. She was part of a mob that confronted police officers and used physical force against them. Video evidence showed Powell providing detailed instructions on the layout of the Capitol and using a large pipe to break windows. The FBI received an anonymous tip that led to the identification of Powell, who was subsequently arrested.