### Comedian Jay Johnston Sentenced to Over a Year in Federal Prison for Capitol Riot Involvement

Comedian Jay Johnston has been handed a prison sentence of a year and a day for his role in the 6 January Capitol riot. The 56-year-old actor, known for his extensive career in Hollywood since the mid-1990s, pleaded guilty in July to a felony count of interfering with law enforcement officers during the unrest.

Johnston, who was notably dismissed from his voice role on the animated series "Bob's Burgers" in December 2021 after being identified as a possible participant in the riot, received more scrutiny from prosecutors who sought a stiffer penalty. The actor's legal team argued that his role had been overstated, although Johnston himself acknowledged the severity of his actions, calling them "reprehensible" in a Washington DC courtroom.

Judge Carl Nichols expressed confusion and concern over Johnston's involvement, citing his successful acting career as making his participation even more perplexing. Evidence presented during the trial indicated that Johnston was involved in a group assault on police officers at a Capitol entrance and aided in carrying out a stolen police riot shield.

Prosecutors contended that Johnston showed minimal remorse and demonstrated awareness of the violence that occurred, pointing to a photograph of him dressed as the "QAnon Shaman" at a Halloween party two years after the event. They also highlighted messages he sent to friends and family downplaying the riot's severity, suggesting it was "exaggerated by the media."

Johnston's lawyer, Stanley Woodward, claimed the actor has been unfairly targeted due to his celebrity status, which has led to a virtual blacklist from Hollywood. According to Woodward, Johnston has spent the past two years working as a handyman, a stark contrast from his career in film and television where he had roles in "Anchorman," "Mr. Show," "Arrested Development," and "Bob's Burgers," where he voiced the character Jimmy Pesto.

The case adds to the growing list of nearly 1,500 individuals charged in connection with the 6 January riot, with almost 900 pleading guilty and over 180 convicted at trial. This development comes as former President Donald Trump, who has referred to the rioters as "hostages" and "political prisoners," campaigns vigorously for a potential return to the White House, indicating a possibility of pardons for those involved.