The Department of Justice (DOJ) prosecutors have recently called for a 120-day prison term for Owen Shroyer, the prominent host of Infowars’ “War Room” program, following his outspoken comments challenging the legitimacy of the 2020 Election.
Shroyer’s charges originate from his activities surrounding the January 6, 2021 events.
Earlier in June, the Infowars host entered a guilty plea to a single Class A Misdemeanor for trespassing, with the specific charge being “Entering and Remaining in a Restricted Building or Grounds” on January 6.
While he never entered the Capitol building, the court document alleges that his influence led others to do so, an Infowars report points out.
The claim states: “Shroyer did not step foot inside the Capitol, he did not need to; many of those who listened to him did instead.”
However, no substantial evidence has emerged showing Shroyer directly urging individuals to enter the Capitol.
In contrast, video footage reveals both Shroyer and Infowars founder, Alex Jones, advising attendees against entering the building.
Jones, using a megaphone, even attempted to de-escalate the situation.
Highlighting the chaotic atmosphere of the day, bodycam videos from the security personnel accompanying Jones show efforts to liaise with the Capitol Police.
These clips include an instance where an Infowars security member suggested letting Jones address the crowd to further de-escalate the situation.
DOJ prosecutors have criticized Shroyer for suggesting that the far-left group Antifa played a role in the January 6th events, despite some evidence indicating the presence of Antifa members among the protestors.
Moreover, in a pointed critique, the DOJ informed the judge overseeing Shroyer’s case that the “absence of violent or destructive acts is not a mitigating factor,” indicating that the judge should not be lenient just because Shroyer did not engage in violence or destruction.
The prosecution’s document further alleges that Shroyer has not shown “genuine remorse for his conduct” on January 6th, primarily because of his sustained belief in the alleged theft of the 2020 election.
They also accuse Shroyer of having “a lack of respect for law enforcement.”
However, public records show Shroyer’s consistent support for the police, particularly when contrasting his stance with those advocating for defunding the police during the 2020 Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests.
This legal push against Shroyer comes shortly after a landmark sentencing for Proud Boys leader, Enrique Tarrio.
Tarrio received a 22-year prison sentence, even though he was incarcerated during the January 6th events.
