In a shocking turn of events, Jason Patrick, a key figure in the 41-day armed occupation of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, has been found guilty of conspiracy to impede officers of the United States. The verdict was delivered by a federal jury in Portland, Oregon on Friday, March 10, 2017.
The occupation, which took place near Burns, Oregon, was a 41-day standoff between the occupiers and federal authorities. The jury found Patrick guilty of conspiracy to impede officers of the United States, a serious felony charge that carries significant penalties.
Patrick’s co-defendants, Duane Ehmer and Jake Ryan, were also found guilty of depredation of government property, a charge that involves the intentional destruction or damage of government property. Darryl Thorn was found guilty of conspiracy to impede officers of the United States and possession of firearms and dangerous weapons in federal facilities.
The sentencing for the four defendants is scheduled for Wednesday, May 10, 2017, in Portland, Oregon. The exact penalties for the charges will be determined at that time.
The occupation of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge was a highly publicized event that drew national attention. The occupiers, who were largely made up of anti-government activists, claimed that the federal government was not managing the land effectively and that they were fighting for their rights as citizens.
However, the jury’s verdict makes it clear that the occupation was not a legitimate form of protest, but rather a serious crime that carried significant consequences. The verdict is a reminder that the rule of law must be upheld, even in the face of disagreement or dissent.
The investigation and prosecution of the case were led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon, with the assistance of the FBI and other law enforcement agencies. The case is a testament to the dedication and hard work of law enforcement officials who work tirelessly to uphold the law and protect the public.
We would like to thank the residents of Burns, Hines, and Harney County, Oregon, members of the Burns Paiute Tribe, and others who were victimized by the actions of these individuals. Your patience with and commitment to both trials was a motivation to everyone involved in the investigation and prosecution of this case.
The exact charges against Jason Patrick are conspiracy to impede officers of the United States. The city and state where the crime took place is Portland, Oregon. The exact date of the verdict is Friday, March 10, 2017. The sentence for Jason Patrick is pending sentencing on Wednesday, May 10, 2017.
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Key Facts
- State: Oregon
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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