Jay Johnston, known for his roles in TV comedies like Bob’s Burgers and Arrested Development, was sentenced to one year in prison for his involvement in the U.S. Capitol riot that took place nearly four years ago. Johnston, 56, was seen participating in the mob’s attack against the police officers guarding the tunnel entrance to the Capitol on January 6, 2021. Despite expressing regret for his actions and acknowledging his ignorance, Johnston was sentenced to one year and one day in prison by U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols.
In his defense, Johnston mentioned that he never anticipated the riot and believed his lack of political awareness contributed to his actions that day. Despite pleas from prosecutors for an 18-month prison sentence, the judge decided on a one-year sentence for Johnston. While he was allowed to remain free after the hearing, Johnston will eventually have to report to prison at a later date, causing him to miss caring for his 13-year-old autistic daughter.
Johnston’s participation in the riot has had severe consequences on his career in Hollywood. Post the riot, he was fired from Bob’s Burgers, lost a role in a movie based on the show, and has faced difficulties finding work in the industry. He has resorted to working as a handyman, a far cry from his previous life as an actor in film and television. Johnston’s attorney, Stanley Woodward, accused the government of exaggerating his client’s involvement in the riot due to his status as a renowned actor.
Johnston’s actions on January 6th, including waving to other rioters and pushing against the police officers, were documented by prosecutors. He was seen helping fellow rioters flush chemical irritants from their eyes and even handed a stolen police shield closer to the police line. Despite these actions, Johnston recorded himself making jokes during the riot, downplaying the seriousness of the situation.
After the riot, Johnston admitted to being at the Capitol in a text message to an acquaintance but tried to downplay the events as not being an attack initially. However, FBI agents seized his cellphone when they searched his home in California, revealing further evidence of his involvement in the riot. Johnston’s case adds to the more than 1,500 individuals who have been charged in connection to the Capitol riot, with over 1,000 rioters already convicted and sentenced, with prison terms ranging from a few days to 22 years.
