Tennessee Man Pleads Guilty to Capitol Breach Assault

WASHINGTON – In a chilling reminder of the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol breach, Michael Tyler Roberts, 34, from Knoxville, Tennessee, pleaded guilty to assaulting law enforcement during the chaotic event.

The courtroom fell silent as Roberts admitted to forcibly attacking police officers on that fateful day, with Judge Amit P. Mehta overseeing the plea. Sentencing is set for Dec. 6, 2024.

According to court documents, Roberts was among a mob of rioters at the Lower West Terrace Tunnel, where he climbed atop fellow protesters to reach police officers protecting the Capitol entrance. For nearly three minutes, Roberts physically engaged with law enforcement personnel, grappling and using his hands to make contact.

The FBI arrested Roberts in Tennessee on Nov. 1, 2023. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division are handling the case, with significant assistance from the Eastern District of Tennessee’s office.

This guilty plea adds to the overwhelming number of charges stemming from the Jan. 6 breach. Over 1,450 individuals have been charged across nearly all 50 states for related crimes, including over 500 facing felony charges for assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation continues to unfold.

Those with information about similar incidents are urged to call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

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