Edward Kelley, a Jan. 6 rioter who breached the U.S. Capitol, has been convicted of trying to have law enforcement personnel, including FBI agents and employees investigating him, murdered. This conviction came after he was found guilty of assaulting law enforcement officers and other crimes during the Capitol attack on Jan. 6, 2021. The jury reached a verdict after just an hour of deliberation following the three-day trial in Knoxville, Tennessee. Prosecutors said that Kelley developed a “kill list” of FBI agents and others involved in the investigation into his actions on Jan. 6.
Kelley’s co-defendant, Austin Carter, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to kill FBI agents in November 2023, testified that Kelley expressed the need to “take out” the FBI. Carter also stated that Kelley and him planned attacks on the Knoxville FBI Field Office using car bombs and incendiary devices attached to drones. Additionally, they discussed assassinating FBI employees in their homes and in public places like movie theaters. Prosecutors introduced recordings showing Kelley directing the plan and instructing attacks in the event of his arrest. Kelley is scheduled to be sentenced on May 7, 2025, and could face up to life in prison for his crimes.
The FBI and federal prosecutors emphasized the severity of Kelley’s crimes, which included conspiracy to murder employees of the United States, solicitation to commit a crime of violence, and influencing or retaliating against federal officials by threat. This case highlights the dangerous and violent nature of the events that took place during the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. It also underscores the ongoing threats and challenges faced by law enforcement in investigating and prosecuting individuals involved in the attack.
The swift conviction and guilty verdict in Kelley’s case reflect the seriousness of the charges against him and the evidence presented during the trial. The fact that he was actively planning and conspiring to carry out violent attacks against FBI agents and employees adds a disturbing layer to his involvement in the Capitol riot. The recordings and testimony presented by prosecutors provide a chilling insight into Kelley’s intent and willingness to do harm to law enforcement officials.
The Justice Department’s announcement of Kelley’s conviction serves as a warning to others who may be considering similar acts of violence against law enforcement or government officials. It sends a message that such behavior will not be tolerated, and those responsible will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. As Kelley faces sentencing and the prospect of life in prison for his crimes, this case stands as a stark reminder of the consequences of participating in violent and criminal acts against democracy and the rule of law.
In conclusion, the conviction of Edward Kelley for attempting to have law enforcement personnel, including FBI agents, murdered underscores the gravity of his actions during the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. The evidence presented during his trial revealed a disturbing plan to carry out violent attacks against federal officials, highlighting the ongoing dangers posed by individuals involved in the attack. As Kelley awaits sentencing and faces the possibility of life in prison, this case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of engaging in violent and criminal behavior against the government and law enforcement.
