OathKeepers trial opening statements are wrapped. Standby…. Trial proceeds in 20 mins
The courtroom is like a sardine can. Jammed with spectators and the attorney tables are overflowing with lawyers. Five co-defendants in this case
Stewart Rhodes in a suit, facemask tucked beneath his nose, is making copious notes
Mike Palian is the first witness at this OathKeepers trial. FBI employee. Was assigned to healthcare fraud unit as of Jan 6, 2021 and was notified and dispatched with others to respond to Capitol after riot broke out.
Palian says he was deployed to guard Senators. And saw Senators crying. And shocked
FBI employee says not only did he help guard Senators, but said scene was chaotic “as if a bomb went off”, windows broken, debris, chemicals…. choking fog of spray. He says he then helped escort Senators back to chamber
FBI agent is talking about his investigation.. into what was initially suspected of being a coordinated effort by OathKeepers group amid the mob on Jan 6. One by one he identifies defendants at defense table. Says OathKeepers’ logos were identifiable in the images from the riot
Prosecutor is showing agent an image from outside of Capitol on Jan 6.. asking FBI agent to circle Stewart Rhodes in photo. The exchange allows Justice Dept to emphasize argument that Rhodes was on/near Capitol grounds that day.
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