Kellye SoRelle, former legal counsel for the far-right group Oath Keepers, has been sentenced to 12 months in prison for her involvement in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.
She pleaded guilty to obstructing justice by urging group members to delete incriminating messages... Continue reading here ▶
Her sentence also includes 36 months of supervised release, $2,000 in restitution, and 120 hours of community service.
The Case Against SoRelle
Prosecutors accused SoRelle, 42, of acting as a go-between for Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes, encouraging members to destroy evidence after the Capitol attack.
SoRelle, who did not enter the Capitol but was seen livestreaming outside, told group members to “clean up all your chats,” referring to Rhodes’ directive.
SoRelle and Rhodes fled Washington, D.C., after the riot and discussed regrouping to amass weapons for further action if President Joe Biden’s inauguration proceeded.
Despite SoRelle’s claims that Rhodes manipulated her, the court held her accountable for her role in the conspiracy.
A History of Extremist Ties
SoRelle assumed leadership of the Oath Keepers after Rhodes’ arrest for seditious conspiracy. A staunch supporter of pro-Trump conspiracy theories, she had previously worked as counsel for “Latinos for Trump” and attended key meetings with other extremist groups.
On January 6, SoRelle referred to the rioters as “acting like the founding fathers” and described the chaos as “hilarious.” She agreed with Rhodes’ remarks that lawmakers inside the Capitol were terrified during the attack.
Mental Competency and Sentencing
Before her trial, SoRelle underwent a mental health evaluation and was initially deemed unfit to stand trial.
However, she later reached a plea agreement, admitting to instructing Oath Keepers to delete evidence. Prosecutors dropped several charges, including conspiracy to obstruct proceedings, in exchange for her guilty plea.
SoRelle’s lawyer argued that she was manipulated by Rhodes, describing him as a “cult leader” who exploited her professional credentials.
The defense also highlighted her isolation from family and personal struggles as factors in her involvement.
Judge’s Decision
U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta emphasized SoRelle’s significant role in the conspiracy, rejecting arguments that she was merely a follower.
While prosecutors sought a 16-month sentence, the judge imposed a slightly reduced term of 12 months, followed by supervised release.
SoRelle has been indefinitely suspended from practicing law and says she has lost her family and marriage due to her actions. Her sentence serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of participating in extremist activities.
