The Justice Department under the Trump administration is working to overturn the sedition conspiracy convictions of several members of the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers linked to the January 6, 2021, Capitol protests.
On Tuesday, the Department filed a motion to vacate the convictions and dismiss the charges against prominent figures like Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes and members Kelly Meggs, Kenneth Harrelson, and Jessica Watkins, along with Proud Boys members Ethan Nordean, Joseph Biggs, Zachary Lehr, and Dominic Pezzola.
The Justice Department expressed that this action serves “the interest of justice.” The motion indicated that such requests usually align with the Department’s practice of approaching the Supreme Court to vacate convictions when it’s deemed justifiable.
Under the Biden administration, previous sentences included 18 years for Rhodes and Harrelson, 12 years for Meggs, and 8.5 years for Watkins, among others. In January 2025, President Trump commuted the sentences of these defendants but stopped short of issuing a full pardon, retaining their convictions which could impact veteran benefits for some, as six defendants are veterans.
Lehr expressed his joy, stating, “I couldn’t be happier. I’m excited to finally be back in action.” He thanked Trump and others involved for making this possible.
Meggs’ attorney stated she appreciates the Justice Department’s acknowledgment that he shouldn’t face further prosecution. Meanwhile, Biggs’ attorney voiced skepticism about whether the court would accept the Department’s request but admitted it’s good to see the Department reconsidering.
Pattis noted that it seemed strange for the Justice Department to reverse its stance after significant time and resources were committed, questioning the message this sends about the law’s respect. He highlighted that despite Trump’s commutation, Biggs lost his earned military pension.
Rose also suggested that the desire to vacate might stem from fears of a negative appellate outcome that could affect future law enforcement based on the weak nature of the seditious conspiracy statute.
Rose believes this might be a way to mitigate potential legal repercussions for the government in ongoing civil claims by the defendants related to their January 6 actions.
He asserted there was perjury involved in their case and voiced a cautious optimism about the Justice Department’s request, stating it would be beneficial for rebuilding their lives if accepted.
