The trial of four men charged with plotting to kidnap and kill Michigan’s governor is ending in not guilty verdicts and a mistrial. The jury found two men not guilty and could not reach a verdict with two others, resulting in a mistrial. The four men faced life in prison sentences if found guilty.
Prosecutors allege they were angry over Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s COVID-19 restrictions and fueled by strong anti-government sentiment. The defense argued an FBI informant set them up.
U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge issued the following statement today:
“Although we are disappointed the jury did not reach decisions in our favor, we continue to respect the jury trial system whatever the outcome. And we thank the jury for their service. Two defendants now await re-trial and, for that reason, we have no further statement at this time.”
JoAnne Huls, Chief of Staff to Governor Gretchen Whitmer, issued the following statement in response.
“Today, Michiganders and Americans—especially our children—are living through the normalization of political violence. The plot to kidnap and kill a governor may seem like an anomaly. But we must be honest about what it really is: the result of violent, divisive rhetoric that is all too common across our country. There must be accountability and consequences for those who commit heinous crimes. Without accountability, extremists will be emboldened.
“The governor remains focused on her work on behalf of Michigan and all Michiganders. That includes addressing violence and threats to our democracy. We appreciate the prosecutors and law enforcement officers for their work on this case.”
Comments