A man from Toms River, New Jersey, who pleaded guilty to charges related to the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol, was among those recently pardoned by President Donald Trump. Robert Coppotelli, 28, faced charges for disorderly conduct and for participating in a demonstration inside the Capitol. Last September, he admitted to being disruptive during the Capitol riot and was sentenced to probation and a $600 fine.
Despite receiving a pardon, Coppotelli has voiced strong criticism about the legal outcomes for those involved in the January 6 incident. He believes that pardons alone are insufficient and that all individuals arrested during the event should have their records expunged. Coppotelli argues that protesters were wrongfully targeted, claiming they were invited into the Capitol by authorities and later arrested without cause. He has called for public apologies and restitution to be made for what he sees as a violation of civil liberties.
Coppotelli’s participation in the Capitol breach was notable, as he was identified in photos wearing a jacket with his company’s logo. He maintains that his actions, as well as those of others, were mischaracterized by the media, and he has accused journalists of spreading false and defamatory claims. Coppotelli has also expressed frustration over the impact the event has had on his personal life and business. Since his arrest, he claims to have faced significant financial losses, threats, and online harassment.
While reflecting on his actions on January 6, Coppotelli acknowledged his anger and frustration with the political situation at the time, but he insists that he and others were not encouraged by former President Trump to enter the Capitol. He described the scene outside the building as chaotic, with police allegedly rounding up protesters and later allowing them to enter. Despite the controversy surrounding his involvement, Coppotelli maintains that his actions were not intended to be violent or unlawful, and he stands by his belief that the events of January 6 were misrepresented.
(AP)