Jan. 6 defendant sentenced to life in prison for plotting to kill FBI special agents who investigated him
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Jan. 6 Rioter Gets Life Sentence Despite Trump Pardon
Above: Supporters of U.S. President Donald Trump protest outside the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington, D.C. Image copyright: Alex Edelman/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Democratic narrative
This case shows the limits of presidential pardons and the rule of law in action. Kelley's separate conspiracy to murder federal agents was rightfully treated as distinct from his Jan. 6 actions, occurring years later in Tennessee. The life sentence reflects the serious nature of plotting to assassinate law enforcement officers who were simply doing their jobs investigating the Capitol attack.
Republican narrative
The prosecution of Kelley despite Trump's pardon demonstrates continued weaponization of the justice system against the Jan. 6 defendants. His actions stemmed directly from his investigation for Capitol riot charges, making the pardon's scope questionable. There still exists a double standard when it comes to how the system treats those on the right like Kelley.
Metaculus Prediction
Editor's Note
This story currently has limited reporting from right-leaning sources. We will continue to monitor all major outlets and update our coverage as additional perspectives become available.