“A day before the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, people from three different states wheeled cart after cart laden with weapons and ammunition through an otherwise unremarkable Comfort Inn Ballston hotel located in Virginia, just a stone’s throw from the Pentagon,” Military.com says (here).
“The guns were stashed in several hotel rooms and in cars parked inconspicuously outside, along with enough food and water to last 30 days. The group, all affiliated with the Oath Keepers, were preparing for battle.”
“The Oath Keepers … created the military-style fast-reaction force as part of its plans to keep former President Donald Trump in power.” Now court document reveal “what the group had planned for that day,” which included “a willingness to take up arms” against the government.
“It’s easy,” Military.com says, “to dismiss the far-fetched plans and those who crafted them as loony conspiracy theorists who like to dress up like soldiers.” And loony it was. But those participating were dead serious when they rehearsed the Capitol siege, set up leadership and communications, organized a “quick reaction force,” and reconnoitered the Capitol grounds before the attack. And, of course, they attacked the Capitol on Jan. 6.
This wasn’t a rally or protest. Guns and assaulting cops aren’t free speech. These people plotted and carried out their own private war against the United States. That’s why they’re charged with seditious conspiracy. And why, if they’re convicted, they’ve earned lengthy prison sentences.
Related story: 10 Oath Keepers charged with seditious conspiracy enter not guilty pleas (read story here).
Related story: Oath Keepers leader denied bail and remains in jail pending trial (read story here).