Accused Capitol rioters John Sullivan – an anti-Trump activist reportedly infiltrated the off-the-rails rally – has a history of violence at protests and “ thrives on chaos, ” a federal prosecutor warned in a fail offer to lock him up if his DC case continues.
“He thrives on chaos,” DC federal prosecutor Bryan N. Reeves told a judge in Sullivan’s home state of Utah during a hearing in Zoom on Friday night, where he was released to house arrest over objections to the prosecution. .
“The suspect uses messaging apps to organize meetings and set up riots,” Reeves told the judge.
“He will impersonate various members of organizations, even those who have denied him,” just to turn people on and cause trouble, argued Reeves of the former Olympic speed skater and self-proclaimed provocateur.
Sullivan also had plans to return to the Capitol on inauguration day, Reeves said.
This despite a slew of allegations involving no less than three protests.
Sullivan turned himself in in Utah on Thursday on charges of civil disorder, entering a restricted building, and violent entry or disorderly conduct after joining the violent crowd of President Trump supporters who stormed the Capitol last week.
But he remains accused of instigating a riot in Provo, Utah, during a protest where a motorist was shot and reportedly threatened violence and committed criminal mischief.
During that riot, Sullivan called on other protesters “to block public roads,” Reeves said.
Continuing on that case, the prosecutor revealed that Sullivan is additionally accused of “kicking a civilian vehicle while threatening the woman inside to” hit her ass and bang her head up “, showing” reckless contempt. for the health and well-being of the innocent. burgers. “
While in Provo for that rally, he was online “urging others in Portland, Oregon to resist the police,” Reeves added.
Still, Magistrate Judge Daphne Oberg ordered 26-year-old Sullivan to remain free in the DC and Provo cases, but to be kept under strict house arrest.
His internet usage and travel will be monitored and he will not be allowed to leave his home except for court-approved appointments, the judge said.
He must also submit to a mental health evaluation. He is due to attend his next appearance in court in Washington during the uprising at the Capitol, which will take place almost 1:00 p.m. on January 22.