In a landmark decision, a Kentucky man involved in the January 6th insurrection has been handed the harshest sentence yet among those charged in connection with the attempted coup. Peter Schwartz, who already had a history of criminal activity, reportedly attacked police officers by throwing a chair and using pepper spray as he and his then-wife stormed the Capitol.
Schwartz’s lawyers sought a lighter sentence of four years and six months, claiming that his actions stemmed from a “misunderstanding” of the 2020 election results. However, U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta felt that a 14-year sentence was more fitting, given the severity of Schwartz’s actions.
Judge Mehta condemned Schwartz as a “soldier against democracy” who took part in “the kind of mayhem, chaos that had never been seen in the country’s history.” He went on to emphasize that Schwartz was not a political prisoner or someone fighting against an autocratic regime, but rather someone who caused damage to countless lives.
Before learning his sentence, Schwartz briefly addressed the judge, expressing regret for the harm caused by the events of January 6th. Despite his apology, the 14-year sentence sends a powerful message to others who participated in the insurrection, demonstrating that such actions have severe consequences and will not be tolerated.
