A Hollywood actor known for his roles in “Anchorman,” “Mr. Show,” “Arrested Development,” and “Bob’s Burgers” was sentenced to a year and a day in federal prison on Monday due to his involvement in the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. Jay Johnston, who was arrested in June 2023, pleaded guilty in July to obstructing officers during a civil disorder.
Johnston was recognized as a participant in the Capitol riots prior to his arrest. He faced consequences in his career even before the legal issues began, including being removed from the cast of “Bob’s Burgers.” Federal prosecutors initially sought an 18-month sentence, presenting evidence of Johnston’s participation in the violence, including an incident where he dressed as Jacob Chansley, the “QAnon Shaman,” at a Halloween party in 2022, highlighting his nonchalant attitude towards the events.
During the attack on January 6, 2021, Johnston spent approximately 10 minutes in a section of the Capitol where significant violence occurred. He aided fellow rioters and used a stolen police shield to form a barrier against law enforcement. Prosecutors noted that he participated in efforts that resulted in a police officer being pinned against a door frame.
In messages sent after the attack, Johnston downplayed the events, claiming they were exaggerated and suggesting they were set up by the police and Antifa. His attorney argued that the government exaggerated Johnston’s role due to his Hollywood status, asserting he has struggled to find work in the industry since the incident.
Charges suggest that ahead of the riot, Johnston made plans for the day, referring to it as a “gala affair.” He attended another rally with conspiracy theorist Alex Jones the night before and documented his actions as he moved toward the Capitol, including video of rioters confronting law enforcement.
With over 1,500 individuals arrested in connection with the attack, federal authorities have secured convictions for more than 1,100 of them, with over 600 receiving prison sentences that vary widely in length. Recent arrests have included individuals charged with assaulting officers during the riot.