WASHINGTON D.C., DC — Richard "Bigo" Barnett, a Gravette man who was sentenced for his role in the Jan. 6, 2021 riot, recently filed an appeal against a part of his 2023 conviction that federal prosecutors say they do not plan to fight.
Barnett entered the U.S. Capitol alongside other rioters while carrying an American flag and a stun gun walking stick on Jan. 6, 2021. The federal judge called Barnett a "face of January 6" at his sentencing hearing, referencing the photo widely circulated showing him with his legs propped up on Nancy Pelosi's desk.
Barnett was found guilty on all charges related to his role in the riot and was sentenced to 54 months in prison on May 24, 2023.
Of the charges, Barnett has filed an appeal against the obstruction of justice conviction. According to court documents filed on Aug. 23, 2024, federal prosecutors do not plan to fight the appeal.
Barnett, who began serving his 4.5-year sentence on Aug. 1, 2023, could likely face a less severe sentence and could be released from prison earlier than expected.
Barnett is currently serving time in a federal prison near Dallas. He's been credited for almost 23 months so far, according to court documents.
No time frame was given on when a judge would rule on whether to release Barnett or not.
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