WASHINGTON — The man who stormed into the U.S. The Jan. 6th attack on the Capitol was led by a man who stormed the U.S. Capitol during the Jan. 6 attack. He was nicknamed the “Doobie Smoker” on social media, after he smoked weed in the Rotunda. On Thursday, he was sentenced to two-year probation.
Federal prosecutors had requested Eduardo Nicolas Alvear Gonzalez be sentenced to three month imprisonment. The government called him a self-employed social media influencer. They argued that Gonzalez’s frequent self-promotions and public statements calling the riot “beautiful,” raised serious concerns about Gonzalez’s respect for the law.
Prosecutor Anne Veldhuis stated that he has not shown any remorse during the sentencing hearing. “He has mischaracterized and glorified January 6 events repeatedly.”
Gonzalez had spent approximately 45 days in prison after his arrest. U.S. District Court Judge Christopher Cooper stated Thursday that Gonzalez’s time served was considered when he decided to give Gonzalez a probation sentence.
Gonzalez spent approximately 30 minutes in the Capitol. He was captured saying that he was smoking marijuana there for “freedom.”
Veldhuis argued that his decision to smoke marijuana in the Capitol Rotunda “underscores” his flippant and cavalier attitude regarding what was going on that day.
Gonzalez’s prior attorney argued in a court file that Gonzalez is sorry and regrets entering Capitol. He now believes that he and others were used by others to attack Capitol. The attorney stated that Gonzalez feels that he is entitled to his opinions on the election results and to respond to any criticisms or characterizations he feels are unfair.
Gonzalez’s new lawyer Jason Hannan highlighted Gonzalez’s clean criminal record. He’s 33 years old and a father. Hannan stated in court that it is a long time for an adult to live without any problems.
Cooper stated that he calls himself the “Capitol Doobie Smoker” online. His handle is “Brotunda.” Cooper said, “That’s more than just expressing a political opinion.”
In connection with the Jan. 6, attack, more than 750 people were arrested by the FBI. More than 2,500 individuals are suspected to have illegally entered the building during the attack or committed crimes outside.
In connection with the riot more than 200 people were already sentenced. The sentences ranged from probation to more five year imprisonment for Robert Scott Palmer. A Florida man attacked officers using a fire extinguisher. He was identified online by sleuths.
