William Pope, a Topeka, Kansas resident, is pursuing legal sanctions against federal prosecutors, alleging misconduct in the handling of his case related to the January 6, 2021, Capitol events. Pope contends that the prosecution failed to provide timely access to essential case files and discovery materials, hindering his defense preparation.
In a motion filed Thursday, Pope asserted, “The government’s opposition to my motion for sanctions did not refute any of the points I raised.
“Rather the government’s attempt at redirection again underscored the fact that the U.S. attorneys in this district do not respect the civil rights enshrined in our Constitution. Most alarming to me is the fact that Mr. Martin told me personally that I was allowed to keep the discovery in my case notes, and he asked me to submit a motion requesting the full government file of my case, but he has now used this as an opportunity to oppose what he requested I file while kicking me with false allegations. This abuse of process by the government should not be tolerated by this Court.”
Initially facing charges including felony civil disorder and multiple misdemeanors, Pope’s trial has experienced several postponements. In November 2024, U.S. District Court Judge Rudolph Contreras agreed to delay the proceedings, acknowledging that President-elect Donald Trump’s forthcoming inauguration could influence the case’s outcome, particularly considering potential pardons for individuals involved in the January 6 incidents.
In January 2025, a federal judge granted Pope permission to attend President Trump’s inauguration in Washington, D.C., despite his pending charges. Pope, representing himself, argued that his presence posed no risk, citing previous peaceful interactions with law enforcement during visits to the capital.
