Utah man who recorded fatal Jan. 6 Capitol shooting sentenced to 6 years

John Earle Sullivan, a self-described political activist from Utah, was sentenced recently to 6 years in prison by a judge in Washington, D.C. The sentence comes after Sullivan’s involvement in the Capitol breach that took place on January 6, 2021. Notably, Sullivan recorded graphic footage of the fatal shooting of Ashli Babbitt, a protester from California, during the riot. Sullivan faced multiple charges, including obstruction of an official proceeding, civil disorder, and entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds with a deadly or dangerous weapon.

Despite his argument that he was there to document the event as a journalist, Sullivan was a participant in the violent event, breaking through a barricade and entering the Capitol building while encouraging other protesters to do the same. It was his encouragement and active participation that led to his sentencing.

It’s important to note that Sullivan’s intentions and actions have been heavily debated, with some claiming he was an instigator while others say he was merely documenting the riot. Despite this, the court found him guilty based on the evidence presented during the trial.