Jon Schaffer, the renowned guitarist of heavy metal band Iced Earth, has been sentenced for his role in the January 6, 2021 Capitol insurrection. The musician, who was also a "lifetime member" of the Oath Keepers, received three years of probation and 120 hours of community service.
Schaffer, one of the first individuals to breach the Capitol during the riot, accepted a plea deal in April 2021. As part of his sentence, he is required to pay $1,000 in restitution and a $200 financial assessment.
The sentence aligns closely with the government's recent recommendation, which praised Schaffer's "substantial" cooperation in the ongoing investigation into the events of January 6. Prosecutors had suggested no prison time for the guitarist, instead advocating for probation, including a six-month period of house arrest.
Schaffer's cooperation with authorities included providing information for other cases and testifying before a grand jury. This collaboration likely played a role in the lenient sentencing decision.
The musician expressed remorse for his actions in a statement, citing concerns about the country's stability during the global pandemic and claims of election fraud as factors that influenced his decision to participate in the Capitol riot. He acknowledged his "impulsive behavior" and took full responsibility for his actions, describing his involvement as a "huge mistake."
The Department of Justice has not yet issued a statement regarding Schaffer's sentencing. This case represents one of many ongoing legal proceedings related to the January 6 insurrection, as authorities continue to pursue charges against participants in the event.