Individual who was the initial rioter to breach Capitol on January 6 receives more than 4-year prison term

A man from Kentucky who was the first person to breach the U.S. Capitol during the January 6 riot has been sentenced to over four years in prison. Michael Sparks, who joined the mob attacking the Capitol, was described by a police officer as a catalyst for the insurrection. Despite believing in election fraud, Sparks expressed remorse in court, acknowledging that the events of that day did not benefit anyone.

The judge, Timothy Kelly, sentenced Sparks to four years and five months, highlighting the severity of his actions that day. Prosecutors had recommended a prison term of four years and nine months for Sparks, who was convicted of six charges, including interfering with police during a civil disorder. Leading up to the riot, Sparks used social media to spread conspiracy theories and call for civil unrest.

Sparks attended then-President Donald Trump’s rally in Washington, D.C., with co-workers before joining a crowd in marching to the Capitol. He was seen wearing tactical gear and was the first one to breach the building, according to testimonies. Despite arguments from his defense attorney, the judge emphasized the significance of Sparks’ actions in influencing the mob’s behavior that day.

Capitol Police Officer Eugene Goodman testified that Sparks’ actions served as encouragement for others to follow him into the Capitol. Sparks was arrested in Kentucky shortly after the riot and faced multiple charges. His sentencing adds to the more than 950 riot defendants who have been convicted and sentenced in connection with the Capitol attack.