Gabriel Agustín García, a Cuban-American from Miami and former candidate for the Florida Legislature, has been sentenced to one year in prison for his involvement in the January 6, 2021, assault on the U.S. Capitol. The United States Attorney's Office (USAO) for the District of Columbia announced that García must also serve 24 months of supervised release and pay a $2,000 fine as restitution for the damages incurred.
The 43-year-old Cuban-American and former U.S. Army captain was convicted of obstruction of law during civil disorder. Though he initially faced a more severe charge of obstructing an official proceeding, this was dismissed following a recent Supreme Court ruling.
García was associated with the "Vice City" chapter of the Proud Boys, an extremist group previously led by Cuban-American Enrique Tarrio. He was personally selected to join the "Ministry of Self Defense" (MOSD), a unit responsible for planning actions related to January 6.
Prior to the event, García expressed violent intentions in messages, one of which stated: "It's time to stack those bodies in front of the Capitol." During the riot, he joined a mob that illegally breached the building, filmed videos boasting of having "stormed the Capitol," and confronted officers with insults and threats.
Inside the Rotunda, García repeatedly shouted: "Nancy, come out and play!" referring to then Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi. He was apprehended by the FBI on January 19, 2021, in Miami. His case is among the over 1,570 linked to the January 6 unrest. Meanwhile, Donald Trump has vowed to pardon those involved should he return to the presidency.
Details on the Capitol Riot Sentencing
What was Gabriel Agustín García convicted of?
Gabriel Agustín García was convicted of obstruction of law during civil disorder related to the January 6 Capitol riot.
What is the "Ministry of Self Defense" (MOSD)?
The "Ministry of Self Defense" (MOSD) was a group within the Proud Boys tasked with planning actions for the January 6 events.
Why was one of García's charges dismissed?
A more severe charge against García for obstructing an official proceeding was dismissed following a recent Supreme Court decision.
What has Donald Trump promised regarding those involved in the Capitol riot?
Donald Trump has promised to pardon those involved in the January 6 riot if he returns to the presidency.