A Florida man was sentenced to eight months in prison on Monday for his participation in the Capitol riot on January 6.
As reported by Just the News, last month, Paul Allard Hodgkins pleaded guilty to one count of obstructing an official proceeding: Congress certification of the 2020 presidential election results.
Prosecutors requested an 18-month sentence, arguing that Hodgkins “contributed to the collective threat to democracy.
“Although you were only one member of a larger mob, you actively participated in a larger event that threatened the Capitol and democracy itself, U.S. District Court Judge Randolph Moss said. “The damage that was caused that way was way beyond a several-hour delay of the vote certification. It is a damage that will persist in this country for several decades.”
Video footage shows that Hodgkins breached the Senate chamber and took a selfie with the “Shaman,” who became known across the country for his viking-esque helmet with horns.
Hogdkins’ attorney asked Judge Moss not to shell out a prison sentence to his client, arguing that the shame is enough.
“Whatever punishment this court may provide will pale in comparison to the scarlet letter Mr. Hodgkins will wear for the rest of his life,” Patrick Ledue said.
The attorney argued that Hodgkins’ actions show “the story of a man who for just one hour on one day lost his bearings...who made a fateful decision to follow the crowd.”
