Proud Boys Extremist Leaders Sentenced to 17 and 15 Years for Role in Capitol Attack: Landmark Case Sheds Light on Far-Right Extremists' Involvement

Two former leaders of the far-right Proud Boys extremist group, Joseph Biggs and Zachary Rehl, have been sentenced to prison for their involvement in the attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. Biggs received a 17-year sentence, while Rehl was sentenced to 15 years. These sentences are among the longest given in Capitol riot cases. Both men were convicted of seditious conspiracy and other charges. Prosecutors argued that Biggs and Rehl played significant roles in the attack, with Biggs being an organizer and leader of the group.

They stated that Biggs tore down a fence during the attack, which qualified him for a terrorism sentencing enhancement. Rehl was seen spraying a chemical irritant at law enforcement officers and lied about his involvement during his trial. During the trial, evidence was presented that showed Proud Boys leaders privately discussing plans for the attack. The group encouraged its members to be present in Washington, D.C., on January 6 and to get "radical." Numerous Proud Boys members were among the first rioters to breach the Capitol.

Biggs and Rehl, as well as other members of the Proud Boys, were convicted of charges including seditious conspiracy, obstruction of an official proceeding, and destruction of government property. These convictions highlight the extent to which far-right extremists embraced false claims by then-President Donald Trump that the 2020 election had been stolen. The sentencing of Biggs and Rehl comes as more than 1,100 individuals have been charged with Capitol riot-related federal crimes. Over 600 individuals have been convicted and sentenced. The sentences handed down thus far indicate the seriousness with which the courts are treating the January 6 attack and the need for deterrence in future cases.