An Arkansas man, Peter Francis Stager, has been sentenced to 52 months in prison for assaulting law enforcement during the Jan. 6 Capitol breach. Stager pleaded guilty to assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers using a deadly or dangerous weapon. The attack occurred when Stager was part of a large, armed mob that stormed the Lower West Terrace entrance of the U.S. Capitol building. Video evidence showed Stager beating a police officer with a flagpole and verbally attacking another officer. In addition to the prison term, Stager was ordered to serve 36 months of supervised release and pay $2,000 in restitution. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Counterterrorism Section of the U.S. Department of Justice’s National Security Division.
Background
Introduction to the article topic
The topic of this article is the sentencing of an Arkansas man for assaulting law enforcement during the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach. This incident refers to the violent attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, when a mob of individuals breached the Capitol building, disrupting a joint session of the U.S. Congress that was held to count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.
Overview of Jan. 6 Capitol Breach
The Jan. 6 Capitol Breach was a significant event in American history that shocked the nation and the world. It was a violent attack on the foundation of the country’s democracy, as rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol, forcing lawmakers to evacuate and resulting in multiple injuries and deaths. The attack revealed serious security vulnerabilities and raised important questions about the integrity of the democratic process.
Case Overview
Summary of the case
The case in question involves Peter Francis Stager, a 44-year-old man from Conway, Arkansas. Stager was involved in the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach and was charged with assaulting law enforcement officers during the attack. His actions disrupted the proceedings of the joint session of Congress and resulted in physical harm to a police officer.
Arrest and charges
Stager was arrested on Jan. 14, 2021, in relation to his involvement in the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach. He was charged with assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers using a deadly or dangerous weapon. This charge carries serious legal consequences and reflects the severity of Stager’s actions during the attack.
Defendant’s guilty plea
On Feb. 16, 2023, Stager pleaded guilty to the charges against him. By pleading guilty, Stager admitted his involvement in the assault on law enforcement officers during the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach. This admission of guilt is an important step in the legal process and demonstrates Stager’s acceptance of responsibility for his actions.
Sentencing details
On the same day as his guilty plea, Stager was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Rudolph Contreras. He received a prison sentence of 52 months, meaning he will spend over four years behind bars. In addition to the prison term, Judge Contreras ordered Stager to serve 36 months of supervised release and pay restitution in the amount of $2,000. These sentencing details are intended to hold Stager accountable for his actions and provide some measure of justice for the victims of the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach.
Events on Jan. 6, 2021
Description of the attack on the U.S. Capitol
On Jan. 6, 2021, a large, armed mob descended upon the U.S. Capitol building with the intention of disrupting the certification of the electoral votes for the 2020 presidential election. The attackers breached the Capitol’s security barriers, overwhelmed law enforcement personnel, and forcibly entered the building. Inside, they vandalized offices, stole property, and engaged in violent confrontations with law enforcement officers.
Stager’s involvement in the attack
Peter Francis Stager was among the individuals who participated in the attack on the U.S. Capitol. He was part of the armed mob that confronted law enforcement officers at the Lower West Terrace entrance of the Capitol building. Stager was captured on video footage and witnessed by others during the assault.
Assault on the police officer
During the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach, Stager participated in the assault on a police officer. Video evidence shows him beating a downed police officer with a flagpole, striking the officer at least three times. This brutal act of violence, captured in multiple recordings, highlights the dangerous and volatile nature of the attack.
Verbal threats towards law enforcement
In addition to the physical assault, Stager was also recorded verbally threatening law enforcement officers. He yelled derogatory and profane language at a second officer who was lying on the ground and fending off attacks from other rioters. Stager’s aggressive and threatening behavior further demonstrated the intense hostility and disregard for law and order exhibited by the attackers during the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach.
Arrest and Investigation
Details of Stager’s arrest on Jan. 14, 2021
Following his involvement in the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach, Peter Francis Stager was arrested on Jan. 14, 2021. The circumstances surrounding his arrest are not explicitly provided in the available information. However, it can be inferred that law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI’s Little Rock Field Office and Washington Field Office, were involved in identifying and apprehending Stager based on their subsequent role in the investigation.
Involvement of the FBI’s Little Rock Field Office and Washington Field Office
The FBI’s Little Rock Field Office and Washington Field Office played significant roles in the investigation of the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach, including the arrest and prosecution of Peter Francis Stager. These field offices are responsible for gathering evidence, conducting interviews, and collaborating with other law enforcement agencies to hold individuals accountable for their actions during the attack.
Cooperation with the Metropolitan Police Department and U.S. Capitol Police
In addition to the FBI’s involvement, the Metropolitan Police Department and U.S. Capitol Police provided valuable assistance in the investigation of the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach. These local law enforcement agencies worked in partnership with federal agencies to gather evidence, support prosecution efforts, and ensure the safety and security of the Capitol and its occupants.
Prosecution and Charges
Role of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia is the prosecuting authority responsible for pursuing criminal cases related to the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach. In the case of Peter Francis Stager, this office played a pivotal role in bringing charges against him, presenting evidence in court, and securing his guilty plea and subsequent sentencing.
Involvement of the Counterterrorism Section of the U.S. Department of Justice’s National Security Division
The Counterterrorism Section of the U.S. Department of Justice’s National Security Division is actively involved in the prosecution of cases related to the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach. This specialized division focuses on investigating and prosecuting individuals involved in acts of domestic terrorism and other threats to national security. Their involvement underscores the seriousness of the Jan. 6 attack and the broader implications it has for the country.
Assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Arkansas
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Arkansas provided assistance in the case against Peter Francis Stager. Collaborative efforts between different U.S. Attorney’s Offices allow for a coordinated and comprehensive approach to prosecuting cases related to the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach.
Investigation Updates
Current number of arrests related to the U.S. Capitol breach
Since Jan. 6, 2021, a total of more than 1,069 individuals have been arrested in connection with the breach of the U.S. Capitol. These arrests have taken place in nearly all 50 states, indicating the nationwide scope of the investigation into the attack. The number of arrests demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies to hold individuals accountable for their actions on that day.
Number of individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement
Out of the individuals arrested in relation to the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach, more than 350 have been charged specifically with assaulting or impeding law enforcement officers. These charges recognize the significant role law enforcement played in defending the Capitol and maintaining order during the attack. Prosecuting these cases sends a clear message that assaulting law enforcement will not be tolerated.
Ongoing nature of the investigation
The investigation into the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach remains ongoing, even as arrests and charges continue to be made. Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and other federal, state, and local partners, are committed to thoroughly investigating the events of that day and identifying all individuals involved in the attack. This ongoing effort is crucial for ensuring justice and accountability in the wake of this unprecedented attack on the Capitol.
Sentencing Details
Overview of Stager’s sentencing
Following his guilty plea, Peter Francis Stager was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Rudolph Contreras. The sentencing represents the culmination of the legal process and determines the consequences for Stager’s actions during the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach.
Decision by U.S. District Judge Rudolph Contreras
U.S. District Judge Rudolph Contreras presided over the case and ultimately determined Stager’s sentence. The judge carefully considered the evidence, including Stager’s admission of guilt, the severity of his actions, and any mitigating or aggravating factors present in the case. Judge Contreras’ decision reflects the seriousness of the offense and the need for accountability.
Prison term, supervised release, and restitution ordered by Judge Contreras
As part of Stager’s sentencing, Judge Contreras ordered him to serve 52 months in prison. This substantial prison term ensures that Stager will spend a significant amount of time incarcerated for his role in the assault on law enforcement officers. In addition to the prison term, Stager will also be subject to 36 months of supervised release, during which he will be monitored and required to comply with certain conditions. Furthermore, Stager will be required to pay restitution in the amount of $2,000. These sentencing details aim to provide both punitive measures and opportunities for rehabilitation and restitution.
Impact of the Case
Significance of the case in addressing the Jan. 6 Capitol breach
The case of Peter Francis Stager carries significant implications for addressing the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach. By prosecuting individuals involved in the attack, the justice system sends a clear message that such violence and lawlessness will not be tolerated. Holding individuals accountable for their actions helps ensure that justice is served for the victims and upholds the principles of democracy and respect for the rule of law.
Sending a message about consequences for assaulting law enforcement
The sentencing of Stager and the prosecution of others charged with assaulting law enforcement during the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach sends a powerful message about the consequences of attacking law enforcement officers. These individuals, who were tasked with protecting the Capitol and its occupants, faced significant harm and danger during the attack. By punishing those responsible for assaulting law enforcement, the justice system demonstrates its commitment to protecting those who serve and uphold the law.
Deterrence against future acts of violence
The successful prosecution and sentencing of individuals involved in the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach act as a deterrent against future acts of violence and insurrection. The consequences faced by those engaged in the attack serve as a warning to others who may contemplate similar actions. Through the legal process, the justice system seeks to deter individuals from engaging in violence and to safeguard the democratic institutions and processes that are vital to the nation’s stability and governance.
Supporting Agencies
Role of the FBI’s Little Rock Field Office and Washington Field Office
The FBI’s Little Rock Field Office and Washington Field Office played vital roles in the investigation of the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach, including the arrest and prosecution of Peter Francis Stager. These field offices brought their expertise in gathering intelligence, conducting interviews, and analyzing evidence to support the case against Stager and other individuals involved in the attack.
Assistance provided by the Metropolitan Police Department and U.S. Capitol Police
The Metropolitan Police Department and U.S. Capitol Police provided invaluable assistance throughout the investigation into the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach. These local law enforcement agencies worked in collaboration with federal partners, such as the FBI, to ensure that those responsible for the attack were identified, arrested, and brought to justice. Their dedication and cooperation were essential in the pursuit of accountability and the preservation of public safety.
Conclusion
Summary of the case and its implications
The case of Peter Francis Stager, an Arkansas man sentenced for assaulting law enforcement during the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach, represents an important step in addressing the unprecedented attack on the U.S. Capitol. Through his guilty plea and subsequent sentencing, Stager has accepted responsibility for his actions and will face significant legal consequences for his involvement in the assault on law enforcement officers.
The prosecution and sentencing of individuals like Stager sends a clear message that the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach will not go unpunished. By holding accountable those responsible for the violence and disruption of the democratic process, the justice system upholds the principles of justice, deterrence, and respect for the rule of law.
Importance of ongoing investigations and prosecutions
While the sentencing of Peter Francis Stager marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice, the investigation into the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach is far from over. With over 1,069 individuals arrested and ongoing efforts to identify and charge others involved in the attack, law enforcement agencies remain committed to upholding the law and ensuring accountability for the events of that day.
The ongoing investigations and prosecutions serve as a testament to the dedication of law enforcement and the justice system in safeguarding our democracy. As the cases continue to unfold, they will shed light on the full extent of the Jan. 6 Capitol Breach and contribute to a comprehensive understanding of its causes, consequences, and the necessary steps to prevent similar events from happening in the future.