'Qanon shaman' pleads guilty for role in Capitol riot, will face 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 years in prison

Jacob Chansley, an Arizona man known as the "Qanon shaman" who was photographed inside the Senate dais during the Capitol riot, reached a plea deal Friday and will likely serve 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 years in prison.

Chansley was one of the first people to enter the Capitol building on Jan. 6, shirtless with an American flag spear, face paint, and furry horns.

He was arrested three days after the riot and originally charged with six crimes, but pleaded guilty Friday to one felony count of obstructing an official proceeding.

Albert Watkins, Chanley's lawyer, requested that his client undergo a competency examination in May and told Fox News in July that he "is diagnosed with mental health vulnerabilities, including transient schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety and depression exacerbated by socio stressors."

Chansley was found to be mentally competent after being transferred to a Colorado facility for the mental health evaluation.

"I am very appreciative for the court’... (Read more)

Latest News