Michigan Man Sentenced to Over 4 Years in Prison for Capitol Attack In a significant development, a Michigan man, self-proclaimed militia leader Matthew Thomas Krol, has been sentenced to more than four years in prison for his participation in the January 6, 2021, riot on the U.S. Capitol. Krol, 65, assaulted multiple officers, including stealing a baton and injuring one of them. Court documents reveal that Krol forcefully made his way through a crowd of rioters on the Lower West Plaza of the Capitol grounds, throwing a water bottle at law enforcement before attacking the officers. U.S. District Judge Rudolph Contreras handed down a sentence of four years and 3 months in prison, taking into account the time Krol has already served since his arrest in February 2022. During the courtroom proceedings, former Capitol Police Sgt. Aquilino Gonell expressed the impact of the attack on his life and career, stating, “The course of my life was changed that day, and he was part of the mob that ensured I’d lose my career.” Prior to sentencing, Krol apologized to Gonell for his actions, acknowledging the harm caused. Krol’s connection to the Wolverine Watchmen paramilitary group, three members of which were convicted of supporting a plot to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in 2020, was also brought up. However, Krol was not implicated in the scheme. His defense attorney argued that Krol regrets his previous statements and had no knowledge of the plot. Prosecutors, on the other hand, contended that Krol had expressed a willingness to engage in violence to achieve his political objectives even before the Capitol riot. They cited Facebook messages where Krol discussed using violence against politicians and expressed hostility towards Gov. Whitmer, sharing pictures of himself with weaponry. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Tessman highlighted these messages in a court filing. The sentencing of Krol is part of ongoing efforts to hold individuals accountable for their actions during the January 6 riot. Over 1,230 individuals have been charged across all 50 states, with more than 440 facing charges related to assaulting or impeding law enforcement, according to the Justice Department. As personal injury bloggers, we recognize the gravity of this case and the importance of justice. Attacks on law enforcement undermine the fabric of our society and endanger public safety. It is crucial that individuals who engage in violence and assault face appropriate legal consequences to deter future acts of violence.