Rochester Man Pleads Guilty to Assaulting Feds, Civil Disorder

In a shocking turn of events, JohnMichael Santiago, a 24-year-old Rochester man, pleaded guilty to civil disorder and assaulting a federal officer, leaving many to wonder what sparked the violence.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, on September 5, 2020, Santiago was part of a group of approximately 1,500 protesters gathered at Broad Street and Exchange Boulevard, about a block north of RPD headquarters. The protesters blocked all lanes of traffic, hurled rocks, bottles, lit fireworks, and other objects at police officers in the area. Some even shined flashlights and pointed lasers at officers.

Santiago admitted to law enforcement that he attended the protests, brought fireworks to the protests, and threw an ignited mortar-style firework at police officers. The firework detonated in the immediate vicinity of the officers, putting their lives at risk.

While in custody at the Livingston County Jail, Santiago assaulted two corrections officers, throwing a hard plastic cup at one and striking the other in the face with his fist. The officers were left with contusions and a concussion, as well as a back injury.

The plea is the result of an investigation by the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the United States Marshall’s Service, under the direction of Marshal Charles Salina.

Santiago faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. Sentencing is scheduled for September 3, 2024, at 3:30 p.m. before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci.

As the city of Rochester continues to grapple with the aftermath of the protests, the guilty plea serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of violence and disorder. The question remains: what drove Santiago to commit such heinous crimes?