Jan. 6 rioter know as “QAnon Shaman” says he is going buy guns after Trump’s mass Jan. 6 pardon

A participant in the January 6th Capitol riot, known as the “QAnon shaman” for his distinctive attire, has announced his intention to purchase firearms following the mass pardons granted to those convicted in connection with the event.

Jacob Chansley, who was famously photographed inside the Capitol wearing a fur-lined helmet and carrying a spear, made the announcement on social media shortly after the former president issued pardons to approximately 1,500 convicted rioters during his final hours in office... Continue reading here ▶

Chansley’s social media post celebrated his pardon and stated his intention to buy guns. He also expressed his love for the country and celebrated the release of other January 6th participants.

As previously reported, Chansley had pleaded guilty to obstructing a federal proceeding — a charge later deemed by the Supreme Court as potentially inapplicable to January 6th defendants. His recent post contrasts sharply with his statements during his sentencing in November 2021.

At that hearing, Chansley admitted he was wrong to enter the Capitol, calling his behavior “indefensible.” However, he maintained that he was not an “insurrectionist” or a “domestic terrorist,” but rather a “good man who broke the law.”

The judge at his sentencing both criticized Chansley’s actions and praised his rhetoric, comparing his speech to that of Martin Luther King Jr., before sentencing him to 41 months in prison. Chansley was ultimately released in May 2023.

The former president had previously indicated he would issue mass pardons, suggesting he would review each case individually to distinguish between “radical” rioters and those who he felt “had no choice.” This sentiment was echoed by others who stated those engaging in violence should not be pardoned. However, the former president ultimately issued broad pardons to the majority of convicted rioters.