New York Man Convicted for Role in January 6 Capitol Breach
WASHINGTON – A New York resident was found guilty today on multiple charges stemming from his involvement in the January 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. His actions, along with those of others, disrupted a joint session of Congress that was held to certify the electoral votes for the 2020 presidential election.
William Joseph Pepe, 35, of Beacon, New York, was convicted on a felony charge of tampering with records and misdemeanor charges, including entering and remaining in a restricted building, disorderly conduct, and interfering with law enforcement during a civil disorder. The verdict was delivered by U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Kelly following a bench trial, with sentencing scheduled for March 11, 2025.
Evidence and Conduct on January 6
According to evidence presented at trial, Pepe met with a group of approximately one hundred Proud Boys members near the Washington Monument at 10:00 a.m. on January 6. The group then marched towards the U.S. Capitol, arriving at the Peace Circle by 12:50 p.m., where they dismantled metal barriers to gain further entry.
Pepe was observed at the front of the group as they advanced toward the Capitol’s West Plaza, removing metal barriers alongside other rioters. Despite police efforts to contain the crowd, including deploying pepper spray, Pepe encouraged the mob, shouting, “Let’s go! This is what we came for, yeah!” He later posted a video after being pepper sprayed, in which he stated, “Yo, the cops pepper sprayed me and Hooks. Me and Hooks got f—ing maced. Storming that Capitol, baby!”
Inside the Capitol
At 2:16 p.m., Pepe entered the Capitol through the Senate Wing Door, spending approximately 38 minutes inside. During his time in the building, he filmed a video that he sent to fellow Proud Boys, proclaiming, “We did it.” Pepe exited the Capitol at 2:54 p.m. through a broken window.
Arrest and Investigation
The FBI arrested Pepe on January 12, 2021, in White Plains, New York. His case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York.
The investigation, led by the FBI’s New York and Washington Field Offices, identified Pepe as BOLO (Be on the Lookout) #4. Support was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.
Ongoing Investigation
Since January 6, 2021, over 1,532 individuals have been charged across nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the U.S. Capitol breach. This includes more than 571 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation continues as authorities work to hold all responsible parties accountable.
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