Barry Bennet Ramey, a Florida man, has been sentenced to 60 months in prison for his involvement in the Capitol breach that took place on January 6, 2021. Ramey, a member of the organized extremist group Proud Boys, was found guilty of felony charges including civil disorder and assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers. Additionally, he was convicted of multiple misdemeanor charges related to entering and remaining in a restricted building, disorderly conduct, and engaging in physical violence. Ramey’s actions, along with those of other rioters, disrupted a Joint Session of the U.S. Congress that was convening to count the electoral votes from the 2020 presidential election. In addition to the prison sentence, Ramey has been ordered to pay restitution to the Architect of the Capitol and serve 36 months of supervised release. The investigation into the Capitol breach, which has resulted in over 1,069 arrests, remains ongoing.
Background
Florida Man Sentenced for Actions During Jan. 6 Capitol Breach
On July 7, 2023, a Florida man was sentenced for felony and misdemeanor charges related to his involvement in the breach of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. The breach disrupted a Joint Session of the U.S. Congress, which had been convened to count the electoral votes for the 2020 presidential election. Barry Bennet Ramey, 39, of Plantation, Florida, was sentenced to 60 months in prison.
Disruption of U.S. Congress Joint Session
The breach of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, resulted in the disruption of a Joint Session of the U.S. Congress. The purpose of the Joint Session was to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election. The breach caused chaos and posed a serious threat to the functioning of the U.S. government.
Barry Bennet Ramey’s Sentencing
Barry Bennet Ramey, a resident of Plantation, Florida, was sentenced on July 7, 2023. Ramey was found guilty of felony charges including civil disorder and assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers. He was also convicted of misdemeanor charges related to entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct, and engaging in physical violence.
Charges Against Ramey
Barry Bennet Ramey faced a range of charges for his involvement in the Capitol breach. He was convicted of felony charges of civil disorder and assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers. Ramey was also convicted of misdemeanor charges, including entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct, and engaging in physical violence.
Details of the Incident
Ramey’s Involvement with Proud Boys
Court documents revealed that on the morning of January 6, 2021, Ramey joined a large group of Proud Boys, an organized extremist group. The Proud Boys gathered at the Washington Monument before marching towards the Capitol. Ramey’s affiliation with the Proud Boys indicates his involvement in a coordinated effort to disrupt the Capitol proceedings.
March Towards the Capitol
After receiving instructions near the Washington Monument, the Proud Boys, including Ramey, began to march eastward on the National Mall towards the Capitol at around 10:45 a.m. This organized movement suggests premeditation and a clear intention to breach the Capitol building.
Casing the Capitol Building
Court records suggest that Ramey and the other Proud Boys circled the Capitol building, actively searching for weak points in the security perimeter. Their actions demonstrate a strategic and planned approach to identify vulnerabilities in the Capitol’s defenses.
Assault on Capitol Police Officers
At approximately 1:48 p.m., several U.S. Capitol Police officers were attempting to block rioters’ access to the stairwell leading from the Lower West Terrace to the Upper West Terrace of the building. Ramey was part of a group that pushed forward into the officers, physically pushing them back and up the stairwell. Ramey then sprayed two officers in the face and eyes with pepper spray, causing disorientation and impaired vision.
Ramey’s Actions and Celebration
After assaulting the officers, Ramey and the Proud Boys proceeded to breach the remaining officers in the line and continued up the stairs towards the Capitol building. Ramey and his fellow rioters celebrated their success on the side of the stairs. Ramey remained on the Capitol grounds for approximately four and a half hours, highlighting his active participation in the breach and his disregard for the rule of law.
Legal Proceedings
Prosecution by U.S. Attorney’s Office
Barry Bennet Ramey’s case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. The prosecutors presented evidence and argued for the charges, resulting in Ramey’s conviction and subsequent sentencing. The U.S. Attorney’s Office played a crucial role in seeking justice for the actions committed during the Capitol breach.
National Security Division’s Involvement
The Department of Justice’s National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section also participated in the prosecution of Ramey’s case. Their involvement highlights the national security implications of the Capitol breach and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions.
Assistance from U.S. Attorney’s Office in Southern District of Florida
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida provided valuable assistance in the investigation and prosecution of Barry Bennet Ramey. This collaboration between different U.S. Attorney’s Offices demonstrates the dedication and collective effort of law enforcement agencies to ensure justice is served.
Investigation by FBI Offices
The investigation into the Capitol breach involved multiple FBI offices, including the Miami Field Office and the Washington Field Office. These offices conducted a thorough investigation, which led to the identification of Ramey as #329 in the seeking information photos. The FBI’s involvement showcases their commitment to uncovering the truth and holding perpetrators accountable.
Number of Arrests Related to the Capitol Breach
Since January 6, 2021, over 1,069 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol. More than 350 individuals have been charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. These numbers highlight the significant impact of the breach and the extensive efforts by law enforcement to bring those responsible to justice.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the Capitol breach remains ongoing. Law enforcement agencies continue to gather evidence, identify individuals involved, and hold them accountable for their actions. The commitment to justice remains unwavering, and further arrests and convictions are expected as the investigation progresses.
Additional Information
Contact Information for Tips
For anyone with tips or information related to the Capitol breach, they can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov. The FBI encourages individuals to come forward with any information that could assist in the ongoing investigation.
FBI’s Role in the Investigation
The FBI has played a pivotal role in investigating the Capitol breach. Their efforts have been instrumental in identifying and apprehending individuals involved in the breach. The FBI’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting the democratic process is evident through their participation in this investigation.
Reducing Gun Crime in America
The U.S. Department of Justice has a nationwide commitment to reducing gun crime in America. Efforts are being made to address the root causes of gun violence and ensure the safety of communities. Through various programs and initiatives, the Department of Justice aims to prevent and prosecute crimes involving firearms.
Department of Justice Policies and Disclaimers
The Department of Justice has established policies and disclaimers to ensure compliance with legal requirements. These policies outline the rights and responsibilities of individuals involved in legal proceedings. It is essential to familiarize oneself with these policies to understand the legal framework within which investigations and prosecutions take place.
In conclusion, the sentencing of Barry Bennet Ramey for his actions during the January 6 Capitol breach serves as a reminder that such acts of violence and disruption will not be tolerated. The comprehensive investigation and prosecution demonstrate the commitment of the U.S. government and law enforcement agencies to upholding the rule of law and protecting democratic institutions. The ongoing investigation and collaboration between different offices highlight the dedication to identifying and holding accountable all those involved in the breach. Through these efforts, justice will be served, and the Capitol breach will not be forgotten.