An actor recognized for his roles in popular comedy TV shows, including “Bob’s Burgers” and “Mr. Show with Bob and David,” was taken into custody on Wednesday for his alleged participation in the U.S. Capitol riot, Your Content has learned.
Jay Johnston, the actor in question, was arrested in Los Angeles on charges such as civil disorder, which is considered a felony offense. He is scheduled to appear in court for an initial hearing in California on the same day. Despite attempts to contact Johnston’s attorney for comment, no immediate response was received.
According to an affidavit from an FBI agent, video evidence captured Johnston actively pushing against law enforcement officers and assisting rioters who attacked officers at the entrance tunnel on the Lower West Terrace of the Capitol.
The footage shows Johnston holding a stolen police shield over his head and passing it on to fellow rioters during the assault that took place on January 6, 2021.
Known as the voice of Jimmy Pesto on the animated series “Bob’s Burgers,” Johnston faced repercussions following the January 6 attack, with reports stating that he was “banned” from the show, as reported by The Daily Beast in December 2021.
In addition to his involvement in “Bob’s Burgers,” Johnston appeared on the HBO sketch comedy series “Mr. Show with Bob and David,” alongside Bob Odenkirk and David Cross. His acting credits also include minor roles in “Arrested Development” and the movie “Anchorman,” starring Will Ferrell.
Records from United Airlines indicated that Johnston had booked a round-trip flight from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C., departing on January 4, 2021, and returning the day after the riot.
The FBI investigation revealed that thousands of individuals stormed the Capitol on January 6 after attending a rally called “Stop the Steal,” organized by then-President Donald Trump.
During the attack in the tunnel, where the mob engaged law enforcement with pepper spray and other weapons, Johnston reportedly assisted fellow rioters by pouring water on their faces.
He also joined in pushing against the line of officers, coordinating with other rioters by chanting “Heave! Ho!” according to the affidavit.
The FBI agent further noted that three individuals, either currently or previously associated with Johnston, identified him as a suspect in the riot based on photos published online by the FBI.
One of these associates provided investigators with a text message from Johnston, in which he acknowledged being present at the Capitol on January 6. Johnston’s message, as documented by the FBI, attempted to downplay the incident, stating, “The news has presented it as an attack.
It actually wasn’t. Thought it kind of turned into that. It was a mess. Got maced and tear-gassed, and I found it quite untastic.”
To date, over 1,000 individuals have faced federal charges for their involvement in the January 6 Capitol breach.
According to an Associated Press analysis of court records, more than 500 defendants have received sentences, ranging from seven days to 18 years in prison, according to ABC News.
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