Matthew Bledsoe, a rioter who scaled the Capitol building walls during the insurrection, has been found guilty on five counts, including obstruction an official proceeding.
Bledsoe is a local business owner in the Memphis, Tennessee area.
In court, Bledsoe stated that he previously viewed the January 6 riot as a “fun experience” but retracted that sentiment during the hearing.
Bledsoe’s defense attorney, Jerry Smith, stated that his client was a “loudmouth” and described Bledsoe’s actions as unintentional. He argued that his client came to the Capitol to demonstrate his grievances “the same way millions of people have come to our city over the years.”
During his questioning, Bledsoe claimed that he wouldn’t have invaded the Capitol if the police weren’t permissive with the rioters.
He claimed “ninety to 95% of the people wouldn’t have gone in” if the Capitol Police were more forceful.
In numerous videos shown by the January 6 Committee, there were clear instances of police fighting against the protestors. From tear gas to batons, the police made valiant attempts to stop the rioters from entering the Capitol.
Chief Justice Beryl Howell, the judge presiding over the case, stated that Bledsoe was claiming ignorance and that he did not know he was on restricted grounds.
The judge stated that it would not be difficult for a rational jury to “find this defendant guilty of every charge.”
