Joe Biggs, a prominent leader of the Proud Boys who was convicted of seditious conspiracy in connection with the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol, is facing a potential lengthy prison sentence according to NBC. The government has recommended that Biggs be sentenced to 33 years in federal prison, which is significantly longer than any other sentence handed out in relation to the January 6th events.
Biggs, an Army veteran who had served as a correspondent for the conspiracy website Infowars, was characterized by federal prosecutors as a key instigator and leader during the attack on the Capitol. They argued that he played a significant role in pushing the Proud Boys toward political violence and used his public profile and military experience to lead a revolt against the government with the goal of preventing the peaceful transfer of power.
In May, Biggs was found guilty of several charges, including seditious conspiracy, obstruction of an official proceeding, conspiracy to use force to prevent U.S. officers from discharging their duties, and destruction of government property. He was tried alongside other individuals involved in the attack, with most of them also facing convictions.
The prosecutors’ recommendation for a 33-year sentence for Biggs is notable as it exceeds the 18-year sentence handed to Stewart Rhodes, the founder of the Oath Keepers who was also convicted of seditious conspiracy in connection with the January 6th attack. The government had initially sought a 25-year sentence for Rhodes.
