A reputed “commander” of the Oath Keepers accused of the deadly riot of the Capitol can be released in confinement while awaiting trial.
U.S. District Court Judge Amit Mehta in Washington, DC, said accused organizer Thomas Caldwell may have helped plan the Jan. 6 insurgency, but there is no evidence that he himself intended to enter. at the Capitol that day.
“There are no text message communications that talk about actually entering the building or trying to enter the building and ultimately not entering the building,” Mehta told the court, adding, “Here there is evidence that I think is favorable to Mr. Caldwell. “
Caldwell’s release was a direct blow to prosecutors, who say it is a direct threat to the community and that he was a mastermind behind the Oath Keepers’ plot to disrupt Congressional certification of the victory. then president-elect, Joe Biden, at the Electoral College.
In ordering Caldwell’s release, Mehta also said he had suffered serious medical problems while in prison; will wear a GPS surveillance wristband while in the internship.
Caldwell, of Berryville, Virginia, was arrested in January on charges such as conspiracy, obstruction of an official proceeding and destruction of government property.
Caldwell, 65, is one of nine alleged sworn guardians who have been accused of conspiring to attack the Capitol, killing five people, including a Capitol police officer.
Court papers say other members of Caldwell were known as “Commander Tom.” He faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted of crimes.
With publishing cables