Federal prosecutors argued this week that Jacob Chansley, also known as the “QAnon Shaman,” should not be released from jail before standing trial over his involvement in the Jan. 6 riot at the Capitol.
Prosecutors told a judge in the case that Chansley is a danger to the community, citing a note he allegedly wrote targeting then-Vice President Mike Pence, his allegedly wielding a weapon while he engaged officers inside the Capitol, and his comments on getting rid of traitors in government, The Associated Press reported.
“He cannot be trusted now to suddenly change course,” prosecutors wrote in a court filing, the AP reported.
Prosecutors argued that a spear attached to a flagpole Chansley carried into the Capitol with him on Jan. 6 was a weapon, though his lawyer disagreed, maintaining that the spear was an ornament. Chansley’s attorney Albert Watkins also argued that the note that his client wrote was not intended to be threatening.
Watkins argued that Chansley should be released because he continues to face challenges concerning his digestive tract, despite being given organic food in jail.
Last month, Chansley’s attorney filed an emergency motion calling for his release or to be provided with food that adhered to his dietary needs. Chansley reportedly practices shamanism and eats only organic food. He lost 20 pounds in jail because he was unable to eat the food that was provided, his attorney said at the time.
Law enforcement officials said Chansley was one of the first people to enter the Capitol building on Jan. 6 and refused to leave. He also allegedly left a note for Pence stating, “It’s only a matter of time, justice is coming.”
Chansley has since said he felt “duped” by then-President Trump to take part in storming the Capitol. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.
“He regrets very, very much having not just been duped by the president but by being in a position where he allowed that duping to put him in a position to make decisions he should not have made,” Watkins previously said.
A hearing is set for Friday to determine whether Chansley will be released, the AP reported.