Originally published October 12, 2023 12:26 pm PDT
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has recommended an eight-year prison term for Rachel Marie Powell, a 41-year-old Pennsylvania mother of eight children, for her involvement in the January 6th Capitol unrest.
Powell, who was given the title “bullhorn lady,” was found guilty of all charges leveled against her in July, which included obstruction of an official proceeding, destruction of government property, entering a restricted zone while armed, and committing acts of violence on Capitol grounds.
In a recent statement, federal prosecutors highlighted their rationale behind the sentencing recommendation, The Hill reports.
They emphasized Powell’s actions, pointing out her violent confrontations with officers at the West Plaza, her use of an ice axe and cardboard pole to shatter a window at the Lower West Terrace, her guidance to fellow rioters on ways to seize the Capitol.
The lawyers also noted her “utter lack of remorse.”
Evidence submitted during her trial depicted Powell, bullhorn in hand, guiding individuals on how to infiltrate the Capitol.
Prosecutors also showcased videos where she was seen sharing detailed insights into the building’s structure when inquired about its blueprint.
Rachel Powell’s arrest in February 2021 followed shortly after her conversation with The New Yorker, The Hill notes.
When probed about her actions during the riot, she candidly admitted, “Listen, if somebody doesn’t help and direct people, then do more people die? That’s all I’m going to say about that. I can’t say anymore. I need to talk to an attorney.”
Powell had turned herself in to authorities after learning she would face criminal charges, according to her attorney, Michael Engle.
“She wanted to turn herself in to face these charges and address them head-on,” he said.
The mother of eight is scheduled to appear in court on Friday afternoon.
Prosecutors are expected to request her detention pending trial, but Engle said he will seek her release, per Newsweek.
“Ms. Powell is certainly not a risk of flight given her strong family ties to the community, the fact that she has young children which she home-schools,” said Engle. “She is not an individual of means that would even allow her to flee.”
