Actor Jay Johnston, known for his roles in “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy” and “Bob’s Burgers,” pleaded guilty on Monday to charges of interfering with police officers during the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol. The 55-year-old actor faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison for the felony of civil disorder. Johnston’s sentencing is scheduled for October 7th before U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols.
Johnston, who was arrested last June, is among the more than 1,400 individuals facing federal charges related to the Capitol riot. Video evidence showed Johnston pushing against police officers and assisting rioters who attacked officers at the Capitol entrance on January 6, 2021, wielding a stolen police shield and directing others to join the chaos.
The actor’s attorney advised him not to make any statements to reporters after his guilty plea. Johnston’s portrayal of Jimmy Pesto on “Bob’s Burgers” came to an end following his involvement in the Capitol incident, as per reports from The Daily Beast. Additionally, Johnston had notable appearances on shows like “Mr. Show with Bob and David” and small roles in “Arrested Development” and “Anchorman.”
Three of Johnston’s acquaintances identified him as a participant in the Capitol riot from FBI photos, and one of them shared a text message where Johnston acknowledged being present during the event. In the message, Johnston expressed that while the situation was chaotic and he experienced being maced and tear-gassed, he did not view it as initially intended as an attack.
