Bob’s Burgers Actor Jay Johnston Sentenced for Role in January 6 Riot

A comedy actor appearing in the movie Presenter and including multiple TV series Bob’s Burgers And Arrested Development He was sentenced to one year and one day in prison for his role in the attacks on the US Capitol on January 6, 2021.

Following his arrest in June 2023, jay johnston He pleaded guilty to the felony charge of obstructing officers during a civil disturbance. As an actor who has appeared on many hit shows, Johnston quickly became known among hundreds of other actors. Donald Trump Supporters stormed the Capitol after the outgoing president’s incendiary speech at the nearby ellipse.

According to prosecutors, Johnston flew from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C., on January 5, 2021. He admitted that during the attack, he used a stolen police riot shield to create a wall inside the tunnel to ward off approaching law enforcement. He also participated in a crackdown with other rioters that pinned a police officer against a door frame.

Prosecutors asked for a harsher sentence for Johnston, telling the judge he showed no remorse for his actions despite admitting his guilt. As evidence, federal authorities presented to the court photos of the actor with fellow rebel Jacob Chansley, who is sentenced to more than three years in prison in 2022. The actor was sentenced to 18 months in prison.

“The 18-month prison sentence reflects the seriousness of Johnston’s actions, including his dissemination of false information about January 6 and his lack of remorse for participating in the riot,” prosecutors wrote in their memorandum. he wrote.

Johnston was fired after he was identified as a Capitol rioter. Bob’s BurgersHe played Jimmy Pesto, the lead character’s neighbor and restaurant rival. Earlier in his career, Johnston was one of the writers and cast members of HBO’s irreverent comedy. Mr. Show with Bob and David and it turned out Sarah Silverman Program. His lawyer told the court he was blacklisted by Hollywood because he was publicly identified as a participant in the attack on the Capitol.

Defense lawyer Stanley Woodward told the court Johnston had been working as a mechanic since his arrest. The actor’s family was present at the sentencing to talk to his character, and his younger brother asked the judge to consider the career damage Johnston had already suffered when considering his sentence. The actor’s 13-year-old daughter is autistic and relies on her father for support, his fiancee said.

In addition to one year and one day in prison, Nichols sentenced Johnston to 40 hours of community service to be completed within one year of release. A $2,000 fine was also added as compensation to the Capitol’s architect.