Support the Prairieland Defendants

Section 1. Summary

Date of proceedings: June 23, 2026 (Tuesday), beginning ~8:11–8:25 a.m.
Court: U.S. District Court, Northern District of Texas — Fort Worth Division
Case: United States v. Hill et al. (caption to confirm; case/docket numbers not reliably captured)
Judges: Sentencing ran simultaneously in two courtrooms —

• Judge Mark Pittman: Maricela Rueda, Benjamin Hanil Song, Elizabeth Soto, Meagan Morris
• Judge Reed O’Connor (Room #2): Autumn Hill, Zachary Evetts, Savanna Batten, Daniel Rolando Sanchez Estrada
  Parties present: Federal prosecutors (“Atty. Shawn Smith” appears in Pittman’s courtroom; prosecutor Frank Gatto appears in O’Connor’s room); defense counsel per defendant (see below); the four Pittman-courtroom defendants were seated together in the jury box.
  Type of proceeding: Federal criminal sentencing (post-conviction; jury verdicts returned 2026-03-13).

Excerpt

All eight Prairieland co-defendants sentenced on June 23 received lengthy federal prison terms — from 30 years for Daniel Rolando Sanchez Estrada to 100 years for Benjamin Hanil Song — after both judges denied every post-trial motion for acquittal or new trial and overruled nearly all sentencing-guideline objections. Judges in both courtrooms framed the sentences as a deterrent message; defense counsel across the cases pressed proportionality and First Amendment objections, several of which were preserved for appeal.

Key Takeaways

• Sentences imposed (consecutive prison terms; figures reconciled across note-takers):
• Benjamin Hanil Song — 1,200 months (100 years). Across counts 1, 2, 3, 4, 7 (attempted murder), 8–10 (firearm discharge).
• Maricela Rueda — 840 months (70 years).
• Autumn Hill — 600 months (50 years).
• Zachary Evetts — 600 months (50 years).
• Savanna Batten — 600 months (50 years).
• Elizabeth Soto — 600 months (50 years).
• Meagan Morris — 600 months (50 years).
• Daniel Rolando Sanchez Estrada — 360 months (30 years).
• All post-trial motions denied. In both courtrooms, motions for judgment of acquittal and for a new trial were denied at the outset of each defendant’s sentencing, with issues stated to be preserved for appeal. Each defendant was advised of a 14-day deadline to file notice of appeal.
• Federal terms run concurrently with possible furure charges resulting from the related Johnson County (JoCo) state cases (as stated for Rueda, Song, Soto, and Morris).
• Forfeiture — mixed results: Rueda’s Jeep ordered forfeited; Soto’s property forfeited (preliminary). Denied/withdrawn: Estrada’s truck (O’Connor declined to order forfeiture; the preliminary order had been vacated the day before by Judge Pittman); Morris’s Hyundai minivan and 2017 Mercedes (removed — found to belong to others); Batten — no forfeiture ordered.
• A single shared restitution obligation of roughly $4,400 (most note-takers: $4,408.95) to the Prairieland Detention Center, payable jointly with co-defendants — see discrepancy note below.
• Both judges invoked deterrence, stating in substance that the sentences send a message to others who share the defendants’ beliefs/ideology and that “conducting terrorism is not the way.” O’Connor repeatedly justified his sentencing with “The need for protection for the public from things of this nature.”
  Prosecutor Frank Gatto repeatedly argued for strict sentencing because “these defendants believe that violence or firearm use is justified.”

Narrative summary

The eight defendants were sentenced the same morning in two separate courtrooms. The accounts below combine the notes of multiple note-takers in each room.

Judge Pittman’s courtroom (Rueda, Song, Soto, Morris)

Pittman opened with a courtroom-conduct warning: outbursts would not be tolerated (first disruptor escorted out, second held in contempt), attorneys could bring electronics but not use them to post to social media, and no vulgarities or facial expressions.

Maricela Rueda — 840 months (70 years). Rueda was represented by Sufia Khalid; prior counsel (“Lisa Pamplin” [phonetic]) had been discharged but remained listed on the record. The court denied the motion for acquittal/new trial (preserved for appeal) and granted the Government’s motion to forfeit her Jeep, finding she drove it to the Prairieland protest and to a “56th Street” house; the Government invoked § 981(a) [phonetic] as allowing seizure of all assets of a person convicted of terrorism but said it sought only the Jeep and electronic device. Nine PSR objections and two addendum objections were overruled (“unsupported and overruled”); the court declined to give itemized factual findings. In mitigation, counsel described Rueda as a 33-year-old mother with no criminal record, contrasted the terrorism enhancement with the average ~26-month sentence in January 6 cases (Pittman: the difference between this case and January 6 is that this case “is charged differently”), and detailed personal hardships and aspirations (father’s death from cancer while she was detained, loss of her home, certification as a doula). The Government emphasized she brought her daughter to the daytime protest and involved her husband afterward. Sentence: 840 months, concurrent with the state case; no fine; restitution with co-defendants ($4,408.95; 2 years’ supervised release. Defense objection (sentence unreasonable) overruled. Rueda was escorted out after sentencing.

Benjamin Hanil Song — 1,200 months (100 years). Represented by Attorney Phillip Hayes [“A Hayes”]; prosecutor “Smith.” Motions for acquittal and to set aside the judgment were denied; 14 PSR objections overruled (well-presented but denied). Three character witnesses testified: Donna Kim (family friend since the 1990s), a former high-school history teacher/weightlifting coach (“Jim Yakubsky” [phonetic]), and his uncle Paul Song. The defense noted Song is a Marine who has attended dozens of protests “armed, never shot [anyone].”

• ★ Pittman, on the trial’s self-defense/”suppressive fire” theory (paraphrased; corroborated by two note-takers): “If we allow suppressive fire as self defense, god help us. It is by the grace of god that the officers firing blindly hit the magazine & jammed the gun. Mr. Song could have been dead… Don’t give me any more suppressive fire defense.” The judge called the evidence “overwhelming” and said the jury returned in under a day.
• ★ Song’s allocution (repeatedly interrupted by the judge as not the time for a political statement): “I don’t hate anyone… When I was standing in plain view, what I saw was my worst nightmare. I knew what Gross’s position meant… [glad we are] not mourning another death.” He stated 22 people were arrested, that Black jurors were removed, and that “this case is a warning that if you believe the wrong thing” the government will label you. He referenced Alex Pretti and Renee Good.
• ★ Pittman, at sentencing: the case “could have been a slaughter,” the defendant “shows no remorse,” and he would have imposed the same sentence even without the guidelines.
  Sentence: 1,200 months across counts 1, 2, 3, 4, 7 (attempted murder), 8–10 (discharge of a firearm), concurrent with the Johnson County case; restitution ~$4,408.95 with co-defendants; supervised release (3 years on the lead counts, 5 years on counts 8–10 concurrently). Convictions: riot; material support for terrorism; conspiracy to use an explosive; explosives; attempted murder; firearm discharge.

Elizabeth Soto — 600 months (50 years). Represented by Burns and Harmony Sherman. The court granted preliminary forfeiture over a Fourth Amendment / lack-of-notice objection (the Government described the residence as the headquarters of the “Emma Goldman Book Club”/”EGBC”, a front for “DFW Antifa”; argued “no nexus requirement”). Motions for acquittal/new trial denied. Of 29 PSR objections, three (Obj. 14, 20, 21) were sustained and the remainder overruled. Defense argued Soto is 40 years old with no record, sits at the lowest rung of culpability (not in the planning chat, left when asked, no weapon), and that Song’s intent to kill was “in no way foreseeable” to her; counsel also preserved a foreseeability argument for the Fifth Circuit because trial transcripts were unavailable at the time their brief was submitted. Witness “Keren Soto” [phonetic] (described as a sister-in-law) testified; Soto declined to make a statement. Sentence: 600 months, concurrent with the JoCo case; no fine; restitution ~$4,408.95; 2 years’ supervised release. Defense objection (unreasonable; Eighth Amendment) overruled — Pittman: findings are well supported, “I sat through this case for 3 weeks.”

Meagan Morris — 600 months (50 years). Represented by Attorney Warren St. John. The Government amended the forfeiture to remove a Hyundai minivan and a 2017 Mercedes (found to belong to others), so those were not forfeited. Motions for acquittal/new trial denied; eight PSR objections overruled. Counsel argued childhood abuse and family hardship in mitigation. Morris’s statement: “All I ever wanted to do was help people… I never wanted what happened at [Prairieland] to happen. It was horrible and I was scared.” The Government described Morris as a 42-year-old with no criminal history who was “central to planning,” was at the “56th Street” location, was armed, and tried to escape. Sentence: 600 months, concurrent with the JoCo case; no fine; restitution ~$4,408.95 with co-defendants. Pittman stated the sentence reflects the seriousness of the offense and that he would have imposed 600 months even without the guidelines. (One note-taker recorded that defense raised no objection to the sentence.)

Judge O’Connor’s courtroom (Hill, Evetts, Batten, Estrada)

In each case O’Connor denied post-trial motions, overruled most objections, and adopted the probation officer’s guideline calculations (base offense level 43, criminal history category 6).

Autumn Hill — 600 months (50 years). Defense argued Hill is the least culpable defendant — set apart from the group, never held a gun, not in the planning chats, believed protest was to be a festive “party”-like protest, and learned of the violence only after going home; counsel invoked Article III judicial independence and called the prosecution’s theory a “hyperbolic bogeyman the government has created” (★). The Government (Gatto) countered that the defendants believe violence is justified and are “incredibly dangerous,” requiring a long sentence to protect the public, and (★) the Judge stated that he “wants to send a message to anyone else with similar ideology.” Hill’s statement: she was “extremely glad no one was injured” and that Lt. Gross was able to go home a few hours later; all she wanted was for everyone to get home to their families. Sentence: 600 months (counts 1–4); restitution to the Prairieland center (~$4,400); 2 years’ supervised release per count; $400 special assessment. O’Connor denied sentencing objection, cited that Hill hosted a “gear check,” was present when Song’s plan was announced, and traveled in a van with firearms; the judge grew visibly angry with defense counsel when asked if he had looked at the case files as he was assigned to the case last week (“Looked at PSR. You can appeal.”).

Zachary Evetts — 600 months (50 years). Post-trial motions denied; forfeiture of items ordered. Character witnesses Russell McKinley, Brandon Smith (educator), and Brooke Evetts (sister) testified to his character. Evetts’s statement: he believes himself “fully innocent,” respects the process, will appeal, intended a peaceful noise demonstration, and is “not a danger to the community.” Defense argued he was doing safety/”the opposite of reconnaissance,” was not near Song, and that “had Mr. Song not reacted with suppressive fire to Lt. Gross… this would have been a matter for Johnson County”; counsel attributed shifting accounts to “Baumann” (who allegedly vandalized and then blamed Sikes, then claimed Evetts was near Song). Sentence: 600 months (counts 1–4, consecutive); no fine; ~$4,400 restitution to the Prairieland center; 2 years’ supervised release per count; $400/count. ★ O’Connor: “Those following this case need to know that conducting terrorism is not the way.”

Savanna Batten — 600 months (50 years). Objections overruled; acquittal/new-trial motions denied; no forfeiture ordered. The Government tied her to the group via a photo on her phone from an “Emma Goldman Book Club” gathering (with Liz Soto, Ines Soto, and Song present) and argued she shares the belief that violence is necessary. Defense called the connection “grasping at straws,” noting she was not present at the gear check or planning, had no firearm (only a medical kit), is not in the “SRA,” and is the least culpable of the defendants; counsel highlighted 354 days already in custody and requested time served. Witnesses Cynthia (mother) and Amber (sister) described her lifelong animal-rights and anti-war activism and non-violence. Batten declined to comment. Sentence: 600 months (counts 1–4, consecutive); restitution ~$4,485–$4,808.95; 2 years’ supervised release. Over a defense objection, ★ O’Connor cited her presence in a car with a 9mm pistol, black-bloc gear, and a med kit, said “the need to deter this kind of conduct is high,” that it was “not [her] first time” breaking the law, and that she is “likely to reoffend.”

Daniel Rolando Sanchez Estrada — 360 months (30 years). Charged with concealing a document and (with Rueda) conspiracy to conceal documents (counts 11 and 12). Defense raised a nine-point challenge to forfeiture and proportionality, arguing the Government abandoned/mis-stated the forfeiture statute, that Estrada was not convicted of any terrorism charge, that he merely moved a box of his own belongings (art, zines) and was not at the protest or in the chats, and that he voluntarily returned to custody after the Government accidentally released him. ★ Defense (paraphrasing/quoting): “30 years is [a sentence] you give to murderers, cartel members… ISIS”; “If every protest case becomes a ‘terrorist’ attack, that sets a dangerous precedent”; ★ “Justice loses its way [when] fear becomes greater than… proportionality.” Estrada’s statement invoked Benjamin Franklin (whose brother was jailed for publishing) and closed: “I’m a father, a husband, a teacher, a poet… but I’m not a terrorist.” ★ O’Connor declined to order forfeiture of the truck, stating he was “not comfortable ordering forfeiture without correct statutes” and that there was “no notice in [the] document[s] re: truck” — noting the preliminary order had been vacated the day before by Judge Pittman. The acquittal motion was denied. Sentence: 360 months (120 on count 11, 240 on count 12, consecutive); no fine; 1 year supervised release per count (concurrent); $200 special assessment. O’Connor: the problem was “moving [a] box because [a] known… terrorist was on the run,” and the sentence “serves to deter others from this type of conduct.”

Quotes flagged as significant (★)

• Defense (Hill): “hyperbolic bogeyman the government has created in this case.”
• Government (Hill): the State “wants to send a message to anyone else with similar ideology.” (Attribution note: recorded under the prosecution’s argument; one note-taker also attributed “sending a message” rhetoric to the judge. No verbatim, quotation-marked judicial quote was captured — see flags.)
• Pittman (Song): “by the grace of god that the officers firing blindly hit the magazine & jammed the gun”; the case “could have been a slaughter.”
• Song (allocution): “I knew what Gross’s position meant”; “this case is a warning that if you believe the wrong thing…”
• O’Connor (Evetts): “conducting terrorism is not the way.”
• Defense (Estrada): “Justice loses its way [when] fear becomes greater than… proportionality”; “I’m a father, a husband, a teacher… but I’m not a terrorist.”

Next court dates

• Notice of appeal: 14 days from sentencing for each defendant.
• Per case background (not from today’s notes): related defendants Ines Soto, Joy “Rowan” Gibson, and Rebecca Morgan, plus several cooperating defendants, are slated for sentencing 2026-07-01.

Case status / posture notes

• Federal sentences for Rueda, Song, Soto, and Morris were stated to run concurrently with their Johnson County state cases.
• Discrepancy with prior case file: the project case.md provisionally noted that sentencing might precede rulings on the post-trial motions. The notes instead show those motions were denied at sentencing in both courtrooms — update case.md accordingly once confirmed against the docket.

Incidents and atmosphere

• Pittman issued an unusually firm conduct warning at the start (contempt for repeat disruptions; no phones-for-posting, no facial expressions).
• Multiple defendants’ allocutions were interrupted as “political statements”; Each defendant escorted out after sentencing.
• Note-takers recorded emotional witness testimony (Brooke Evetts and Soto’s witness in tears) and visible judicial frustration (O’Connor raised his voice at Hill’s counsel; one note-taker wrote “why even try with this courtroom”).

Section 2: Full Notes

These raw notes cover the full federal sentencing session of 2026-06-23 across both Judge Pittman’s and Judge O’Connor’s courtrooms (all eight defendants heard that day). They are reproduced verbatim from the reviewed transcriptions and are not split by defendant.

---

AJ (O’Conner)

π: Acts of terror as basis for sentencing. → Cites disdain for police. They are dangerous → this is why a long sentence is necessary.
States they believe violence is necessary.
States beliefs
Wants to send a message to anyone else with similar ideology.

Δ: trust in courts calc.
Points out gov’t argument →
# of instances Delgado [?] reffered to Hill as an individual
Article 3 cite → independent branch →

does not want Hill to be swept away by government boogyman. → says Hill is set apart.
No evidence Hill believes in violence → gov’t lumping everybody in cites the ridiculousness of using Zines.
No evidence that Hill had or was trained w/ guns
Hill not in any orgs
Satanic death cult → a movie review.
Never held gun, firework, or spray paint.
Firework used as explosives → absurd idea.
Hill paused to clean up the mess leftover

Hill left before Gross arrived – learned later about what happened.
Hill → argues any sentence is not fair. She de [?]

Hill → Glad no one was injured, that Gross walked out a few hours later.
Glad friends are alive.
Protest seemed like a party.
Festive atmosphere → believed night was just fun.
Did not expect or desire any violence or property destruction.
Preparing for protests req. more in today’s world.
All she ever wanted was for everyone to get home and that she would too.

50 years?
60 m 12√600
180
240
120
con — 600 mths →
concurrent with any other case[?].
No fine → def must pay ~$4,000 to PLD,
Restitution due immediately.
$100 per month

Judge: a term of supervised release of 2 years per count to run concurrent.

Spec. Asses $400.00
Claims → busted gear check, consented to plan, was with Song when he discuss[?]

refers as “Attack”. a search of Hill’s home — body armor, firearms, spray paint.
Sentence to be Send a message to any riotus individuals.
Cites political process > terrorism.
Obj overruled.

Judge is getting aggro w/ Hill lawyer.

---

Evetts

Judge reviewed objections + over ruled.
Judge denies post trial motions for acquital or new trial
O: when Evetts joined
had no connection to plan/
demo org.

Regrets – should have been
more specific.
Verdict
Judge – evidence supports
forfeiture of items.

J: Count 1 (-3) 184 mo
Count 4 180 mo
Supervised on all counts

D: Russel McKinley o-
Stand – Character witness-
(High) school coach(-)
3rd character witness sister
Brooke

Evetts: believed himself
innocent → exersised right to trial.
He strongly beleves his innocence →
repets process.
Will exercis right to appeal.
July 4th → const. right to
so vocally support the detainees.
A [circled] Morale has spread to
inside the jails.
His intent was a 2 hour
noise demo → go home.
Regrets the way that night
turned out.
He is somone who cares.
Seeks to help other people
Helped imates w/ DP prep.
Learning Spanish
Not an d anger, will obey
probation.

D: remark that Evetts,
he underwent a full psych
eval.
was not recon, was doing
safety.
(Gross initated violence →)
if gov’t is true, Evett
was in parking lot and not
near Song.
cites discovery + videos.
Cites → suppresive fire should
have just been a case about
that for JoCo.
cites Evetts comms, Evetts always
anxious. Blames Song as a wild
card.
would argue No Punishments
Argues for setence that reflects
Evett’s character.

J:-
Ct 1 60
Ct 2 180
Ct 3 240
Ct 4. 120
Consec 600 m.

Supervised release after.

cites: black bloc, “surviellance”, Firearms
He was there, car had gun + vest.

More rhetoric on Democratic
process.

Wants to send message
to anyone w same beliefs.

Savanah:
No Forfeture →
offleur 43
Crim 6
48 mnts ct 1-3
imprisonment 120 mnts for
all other 480 [m] 1 2,3
120 [m] 24}

P: She shares extreme
views, with terrorist support →
She beleves violence is necessery,
She was not charged ?,
not in GC → 2-3 weeks tron
trial → phone picture of
EGBC meeting w Liz Soto →
Ines → cites “throuple” and
Song was @ EGBC (→)
Cooperater id’d Song

cits Inés’s plannings →
node with the Sodos [?] →

D: 4(?) categories of Planning
Sav. not present for any of
them
Savanna’s residence → a
map printout. Search for
phone/[?]res — argues map [?] →
Map is unrelated.
Only evidence is one
photo of Book Club.

• Characters
  witness → Cynthia
  → Amber
  D: Gov’t has there [?] on
  “attack” – important →
  Sav. no firearm or any
  evidence of violence
  Not SRA, she is the least

culpable → no criminal history –
2 priors → no conv →
civil disobedience →

J: sentence
ct 1 60
ct 2 180
ct 3 240
ct 4 120
600 months →

Same bullshit from judge
about sending a message

D: objection – Overruled
J:
wearing black had mask, first
aid kits + Inc, [?] chat logs →

Des[?]:
J – [?] all objections overruled

D:
4 points –
1 – most recent filing →
gov’t abandoned allegations of
exhibit A.
Doc 505? 255²[?].
(Forfeiture)
2 – Gov’t response has not
explained, defended, or withdrawn
Doc 505. Paragraphs are not
factual.
3 – Gov’t relies on title
28 section ?. Must be
convicted by Act of
Congress. Not convicted
of any terrorism related
charges.

---

CA (O’Connor)

June 23, 2026 Tues.

time: 8:11 am start

[circled] 1

2nd Floor O’Conner

CA: Cheryl

Hill, Evetts, Batten, Dio

Criminal #6   813 Sec.

Cts 1,2,3,4 5-50 yrs

J: deny any acquittal or new trial

Pros: Violence not justified, not required, to express opinions opposed to the gov’t.

Def: gov’t’s argument that # of incidents re: Miss Hill, Article 3… we dealt ⊆ the issue (without) the boogy man of (Antifa?) Ms Hill has (no intent of) violence. There’s no evidence of scary (planning) of violence … or extreme ideology… no evidence in her house … of a death cult, (police) just looked at the title (of a zine), didn’t look inside. No one testified that Ms. Hill ever had a gun at the facility, no evidence (she) had a fireworks, no evidence of a can of spray paint. There’s no evidence that fireworks were used to destroy property. (After fireworks, Ms Hill stopped to ask people to pick up the trash, that’s the kind of person she is. Nothing points to her (as an individual, the gov’t referred only to “they, they, they.” She was not a part of any chat group. The appropriate offense is a substantial downward shift.

Next, Autumn gave verbal statement of defense. (The group) (She) did not want any violence and did not expect it.

+ 180

+ 340

total 600 months **be** served consecutively

\# 18-202500932

$408.45 owed to PL detcntr. Can pay restitution monthly.

CA 2 6/23

with release to (1/2 way hse) + $400 ($100 ea of 4 courts)

Judge referred to statement that Autumn was involved in planning, fireworks + guns + w/ Song. Sentence is just … attempted assault on an officer … the defendant does not like the gov’t (and) engaged in violence. Probation: 2 yrs.

Judge: denied any objections, nor appeal. (And that) all items are legitimately, forfeited.

Defense: Evett’s lawyer… questioned forfeiture.

Judge denied. And listed penalties per charge.

Pros. argued to increase penalties? Zach didn’t testify.

But, 1st witness:

“Mr Russell” called to testify. Re: Zach. [In defense of Zach] Mentioned a difficult personal time + how Zach helped him, changing his (Russell’s) life for the better.

2nd witness, Brendan, “an educator.” Spoke for Zach. I’m a man of faith, a father, an educator. After many years, I’ve learned (how to guide others to wise choices). I believe Zach’s (values) are much like mine. Even now, while incarcerated, he volunteered to help (one of my) students with (a school [engineering?] project). That’s the kind of person (he is). My confidence in Zach’s character (is undiminished).

Next witness. Brook Evetts. (she was crying as she tried to talk so very difficult to understand). She’s Zach’s sister. Impassioned plea for leniency.

Then Zach gave statement. Expressed “regret about how it turned out” and his “desire to help other people.” and gave examples. Defense lawyer in soft spoken manner. “I do regret the one thing that Zach said(?)”… … revisited protest & said Zach maximized safety.” Something about Baumann …”in no way is Mr Evetts tied to violence at all” & about Song.

[circled] 3   CA 6/23

Defense: About not siding with Song re: violence — did “not Advocate for it” (having guns).

Judge: ct 1 60 mo, ct 2 180 mo, ct 3 240 mo, ct 4 120 mo  = 600 mo. BTF Case….

$4,800.45 to be pd to PLDC + $100 each count charge 1-4. 2-yrs for counts 1-4. He’s determined that Zach “engaged in discussions + planning” of events + the “wear(ing) of black bloc”.

Tolliver for Savanna:

Case# 425CR25…

Judge: I’ve overruled these objections not accepted criminal

48 mo counts 1,2,3 + 120 on ct 4 served consecutively = didn’t add months

not more than 3 yrs per count

Prosecut: “a big NRA” “holding pen” “video sent by her phone” 

“we believe she is vegetarian” + quoting what she “said” in the video.

Tolliver: There were 4 categories of claim [blame?]. “She was not present in chats” TSR? “there’s a photograph from her book club”. Ms B had no knowledge of planning for “that night” “Her involvement” “was support, not planning”.

Cynthia Lokey testified: started crying while talking about Savanna’s personality + character “she is a nonviolent person completely”.

Amber spoke next: “I had the opportunity to love her; (about) her love for animals (w/examples) “extending (to) an. rights, anti-war, and being vegan”…. Savanna provided emotional support” (for family members) acting = non-violence + standing up for “those w/no voice”.

[circled] 4   CA 6/23

Talbert: “no mention of firearms”… SRA…

“no evidence that connects her to firearms” speaks to who she is… her activism… ct 4,5 mandatory 10 yrs…. requests (by defense)

Judge: 35.53 ct 1 60 mo. ct 2 108 mo ct 3 240 mo ct 4 120 mo  = 600 mo.

#302… consecutively $100 | mentioned “large support for defend” but disregarded all testimony from all witnesses (fl Amber, Zach + Savanna) Judge said “planning included possession (of guns) + wearing black bloc”

Judge calls case

#4252R459: Des. Judge “ruled those objections” (did not fit guidelines) $5k + $500k. He overruled Judge Pittman

Defense: 9 pts: document repeated in doc 425 (+ 127)

#2 gov’t has not explained it is incredibly important to get correct info in report but info is wrong

#3 convicted of, by an act of Congress … our client was not convicted of terrorism. In fact, the counts do not (reflect) any of the charges (?)

#4 does not invoke forfeiture house arrested failed to mention forfeiture

#5 also about property forfeiture no mention of the truck

#6  2.2 section A: mandatory sanctions of the gov’t.

#7: entitled to receive a receipt

#8: one of the __ officers questioning him… the night of … (no evidence of) terrorism

#9: some of (this is) motivated by officers(?) misconduct. (about conduct) Antifa because even tho ____ ask that the court  What different about this the only

[circled] 5   CA 6/23

… thing it could authorize”

Pros: “they did not stop short of taking action”. “They knew we were seeking forfeiture”… “maintain… control… “claiming attempt to retrieve (Mari’s) car (indicated evidence of corroboration, based on jail phone call…) “he knew Everything, everything”

Judge: “I will not be ordering forfeiture” (of Des’ truck) (he was not convinced that evidence supports this).

Defense read statement of defense. “30 yrs is fit for some murders + other violence, ISIS recruits + attacks”; “30 yrs is not fit for” (someone ⊆ zines). The word “terrorism” is now used loosley for beliefs, not conduct. It is not justified in this case. The govt has never given evidence of Antifa “He went to his shared house — not her house — they were married.” “He hadn’t even met… each of the items were from 4-24-04. [margin note: 2nd lawyer was good.] “36 people wrote letters on behalf of” Des. When they released him by mistake. “the average person would’ve taken that and run” “He turned himself in” when he found out it was a mistake. “he moved a box” — “that’s the only action — the rest is a matter of belief, not conduct.”

Then Des gave statement. Spoke ⊆ his work as a teacher + a writer + artist, and always cared about his students. Worked well with other teachers + w/ parents.” “I worked really hard every day in this country… believe in human rights + helping others (in need). I (donate) $ from art to helping animals + other people” (+ gave examples). Talked of books +

CA-6/23

(libraries). “I’m a father, a husband, a teacher, but I’m not a terrorist.” Supports protection of the earth + water + air.

Judge determined to ↓ sentence

    Pros. objected

Judge re-iterated new position:

Cts #11 120 mo #12 140 mo consecutive = 240 mo.

    1 yr on cts 11+12 concurrently

    mandatory assessmnt of $100 per count =

    $200.

(1st Defender[?]) yes, then 2nd def

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DW (O’Connor)

Autumn Hill —

J = Filed objection pre-sentence report objection overuled

Adopt probation officer conclusion

43 — CH 6

480 — months    count 3 — 120 months

1,2,3 = no more 3 years for each charge

Deny post-trial aquital

π — easy to say just off fireworks officer got shot

Disussing Anti-fa

★ Extremly motivated Die hard belief to resort to violence, fundamental extreme belief and a terrorist

π = ★ incredibly long sentence is neccessary to protect the public

Δ = a PSR from former ruling asks judge if he’s had time to review case

Gov argument number Mr. Gatto referred to Ms. Hill as an individual article three putting in check the executive branch

★ hyperbolic bogeyman the government has created in this case

Δ Argues that Ms. Hill was seperate from this charge

Zine context their ideas conflict and can’t co-exist

No evidence Ms. Hill was engaged in militant ideology
none in trial or discovery
no evidence she had gun

Δ — Ms. Hill never mentioned in range training

Not associated with socialist rifle association

★ Ms. Hill stands apart from this group

★ Ms. Hill arrives, she never held a gun, as everyone else testified

Δ — Ms. Hill was not a part of the vandalism

★ Absurd idea that fireworks were used to attack the facility

★ Ms. Hill paused to pick up trash from firework she didn’t want to destroy property you can see this on video

Δ = Ms. Hill didn’t find out about the violence until she arrived home, not a part of the chat group

★ eng encouraged that this being decided by someone trust Autumn = “I’m extremly glad no one else was injured glad Lt. Gross was able to leave the hospital after several hours”

“When I went to protest on 7/4, my friends had brought fireworks, thought we would go home like normal, didn’t want any violence to occur

“Protesting can be very scary, because perception from public, Last thing on my mind that anyone would be injured all I wanted was everyone to get home to their families

8:30

Sentence:
60 months 1
180 months 2
120 months 4
600 months total

$4,900 to prairie detention center for restitution
$100 per month restitution

Supervised release = 2 years per count

$400 mandatory assessment per count

Δ = Object to the procedutial (?)

★ J = Drove in car with weapons and kevlar vests and fireworks

★ The need to serve just punishment and adequate protection of civilians

π:* the violent attempts to carry out engaging in violence is an act of terrorism on the government

Δ = * working on assumption court need review details

J * You don’t need to address me directly, you may appeal

———————

8:46 Next case – Mr. Evetts

π = \* overrule all objections, deny post trial objections for aquittal

Δ = \* when Mr. Evetts joined the demo nothing in his vehicle that was used for the incident

J = Adopt the probation officer guideline

1, 2, 3 = 480
4 = 120 consec 

$50,000 – $500,000

π = \* Firm belief the use of violence is justifiable

Δ = Call Russell – spoke on Zach’s character – and how he doesn’t have

Brendan Smith

\* If you asked me a year ago if Zach would be in this situation I wouldn’t believe it. Stands out as the most reliable in character

Brooke Evans

\* Zach was loved by everyone even the pop kids, he always abided by the rules

8:55

Δ = Zach Evans testimony

\* The[?] high[?] the process and the charges against believe myself to be not guilty. After the evidence I believe even more that I’m innocent

Speaking on 7/4 full intent to use my first rights to show support for those detained in there.

My intent that night was to do a noise demonstration and for it to be peaceful I did not intend for anyone to get hurt. I’m someone who cares about others I’m not a danger to the community. I will adhere to all the conditions of the probation.

Δ = 2026 has been a strange year for those involved in this case

Δ = If officer Gross had not drawn his gun then there would not have been a need to return suppressive fire. Evetts was always anxious about safety and trying to prevent violence.

J = Sentencing

60 months – 1 
180 – 2
240 – 3
120 – 4

600 consecutive months

Do not order a fine
Pay $4,900 to PLDC
Sup Rel – 2 year per count

J = considered all support letters and testimonies the sentence is sufficient but not greater – surveilled that moving confirmed everyone wear black bloc

9:15

Case = 3   Savanah Batten 
J = You have filed objections overrule objections that not already accepted

Post – Trial Aquital – Denied

No forfiture ordered in this case

Imprisonment range  

480 – 1, 25 count
120 – 4 count

π = picture of her with Emma Goldman book club, they are always together Ines, her, and Benjamin Song. believe because she recognized Benjamin Song in phone.

She rode with Ines and Benjamin Song.

Δ = \* government is grasping at straws. What we know from actual findings Ms. Batten didn’t participate wasn’t present and was not part of group chat

[circled: 9.20]

Δ = search of her residence no weapons, no evidence. phone only evidence is map and picture of her at Emma Goldman book club

Charged with rioting and explosive counts. Approach indicates that her support was not to incite violence

Witness: Cynthia Blakely — Savanna’s Mother

★ she only wants to help others she is non-violent she will be a loss to her family and community

2nd Witness: Amber Blakely — Sisters

★ I’ve had the opportunity to watch her grow up. She always cared for animals couldn’t say no to a rescue. Started with veganism, this prompted her to explore other social justice issues

Δ = went to PLDC to participate in a noise demonstration, government has a different opinion. No possession of firearm, including residence and her person

Only thing found was medical kit. not a member of SRA. No evidence that connects her to firearm.

Crim Record — two charges

civil disobedience

Wall Street — Sit IN. Criminal history supports her activism and concern for community 354 days in custody already

Request consider time served

Sentencing —

60 — 1
190 — 2     ⎫ consecutive
240 — 3     ⎬ 600 months
120 — 4     ⎭

supervised — 2 year for each

counts

[9.45]

Δ = Objection.

J = considered all support and facts and sentence is sufficient but not larger than necessary

Traveled with Ines Soto and Elizabeth Soto She travelled in car that had 9mm

She was dressed in all black bloc

Case # 4 = Dan Sanchez

J = You have filed objections to the document. Overrule the objection that the addendum does not accept

360 — 480 (months) prison range

$50K — 500K

Δ = Court has vacated preliminary order yesterday

Δ = 9 points

#1: The government abandoned any items on ex A allegations repealed in doc 5.5

Exhibit A identical to 255 superceded indictment. Only one notice of forfeiture permitted

#2: Gov has not explained or amend doc 5.5 incredibly important with new trial judge to get correct info to court. The paragraphs are wrong factually

· #3: Theories of Forfeiture.

“the defendant must be convicted act of congress”

Our client not indicted on criminal terrorism the counts of indictment dont reference other charge including the conspiracy charge. Does not invoke terror provision for Sanchez but not the other defendants

Δ = Other defendants charged with broader charges

#5 Second superceding Indictment does not suggestion of forfeiture

Personal items found in the truck but no mention of truck in Doc 5.5.

Absence court cannot enter forfeiture.

Supreme Court mandatory sanction if not included

#7 Defendant is entitled of return of all property

#8 Terrorism Provision — on the day of arrest, would not tell him why he was being arrested

Officer said he wasn’t sure of the charges

Officer referring to state charges.

Δ = state charge predicated on aggravated assault. forfeiture applies to state case cannot be applied to federal case

Point #4. Some of this is motivated by protected conducted. we live in a country where people can say and think what they want excepting taking action

π = short of taking action. they didn’t stop short of taking action so it doesn’t apply to this case.

The defense was aware the prosecution seeking forfeiture

Admits Government listed incorrect statute. Conceded federal terrorist intention/obstruction

Claims Sanchez changed his story that he was “just visiting friends”. Argues that conversation on phone that he “knew the community”

10:00 a.m

π = x He knew everything, trying to conceal his involvement in obstruction

J = Not comfortable allowing forfeiture. No notice in documents to inform defendant focuses on, I will not be ordering a forfeiture.

π = the evidence shows that he’s part of the community and their view point on the government

J = Punishment must fit crime

Not press, not Sanchez not at protest not involved in planning moved a box of his own items art, zines, etc. Nothing in box referenced PL. nothing in the box was illegal.

Δ = 30 years to sentence you give murders, cartel members.

π = 30 years is sentencing you give to murderers, cartel members, 30 years sentencing have been used on ISIS. Not applicable for this situation.

Terrorism is an extreme word and is being cheapened tounauthorized fit, the government has not respected this word.

Our constitution protects our belief.

If punishment is increased this set dangerous precedent involving free speech. If every protest case becomes a “terrorist” attack that sets a “dangerous precedent”

36 Letters character written on his behalf, no past criminal charges, our government accidentally released him, had opportunity to go to Mexico. Went back voluntarily two-weeks later

Δ = 30 year sentence doesn’t fit crime. Not a murder, or terrorist

12-16 months was initial suggested sentence

All of this because he moved box.

★ Justice loses its way fear becomes greater than its proportionality

Sanchez testimony ~

★ I’ve lived here since 14 extremely thankful for opportunities and I have a love for teaching, talks about family as educators. Literature and art has always been important to me. Be loving and care for others. Advocacy for human rights

[10:30]

π = Sentencing

Guideline Range

360-480 months

Sup Rel = 3 years per count

Accept Addendum: not

overruling objection

120 – 11
240 – 12
360 Months total

No fine ordered

Supervised release – 1 year concurrently

Mand Special Ass per Count = $200

Δ = specific issue count 13 runs

conspiracy count concurrently

ES (Pittman)

Summary of Results

Song          1200m
Rueda         840m
L. Soto       600m
M. Morris     600m

Preliminary Comments by Pittman

• Outburst will not be tolerated
• 1st person to disrupt will be escorted out
• 2nd will be held in contempt
• attorneys may bring in cell phones/electronics
• they should not be used to post on social media or scroll tiktoks
• no vulgarities will be tolerated

US vs Song

A Hayes looks for witness

US vs Rueda

Represented by Sufia Khalid

Is Pamplin still on the case?

She has been discharged.

According to the court she’s still on the case.

#### Rule 29 / Rule 33

Court has reviewed motion + response. Reviewed transcript. Motion was well presented, preserved for appeals, and DENIED.

Motion for foreiture. filed last night.

Has read gov + Ms. Rueda’s response. Invitation to comment.

Prosecutor. 981 ag allows gov to seize **all** assets including house, property, etc. the government is only asking for JEEP + device.

Response. from Akhalid.

– Failed to demostrate that the Jeep is subject to used to support terrorism. It was not used to transport fireworks. Not used during the protest. Government did not show jeep was used in that way — did not show nexus. Not all documentation is available through the court so it can’t be ruled on now.

Prosecution – none of that matters. We could have taken anything but instead used discretion. She did use Jeep for transportation to Praineland + 56th st house.

Judge grants motion for forfeiture.

Akhalid – Raises question about 56 devices

Prosecutor –

Judge addresses Rueda

You had a trial + were convicted of

    count 1:

    count 2:

    count 3:

    count 4:

Did you receive PSR?

A Khalid – yes

Did you review them in detail with your client?

A Khalid – yes

There were 9 objections to PSR and 2 amendments.

Judge is prepared to overruled.

A Khalid would like specific itemized factual evidence to support why each objection were overruled.

Judge – They were insufficient + overruled

Appropriated guidelines

    43

    6

    7 – 20 month

    120 months

    1 – 3

    $50,000 – $500,000

Character Presentation by A Khalid

Ms. Rueda is a 33yo mother with zero criminal record. Attended noise demo that unfortunately took a turn for the worse. She was surprised by all of that. The chats contained normal planning for civil disobedience. She’s even good with parking tickets. Guidelines are much higher that similiar cases around the country, most notably the Jan 6 Riots. Avg sentence was 26 months

The judge interrupts. the diff between this + Jan 6 was the way that it was charged. Are there any mitigating factors?

Yes, numerous. This comparison is discussing similar **conduct** not similarly charged. I think the gov was right not to charge w/ terrorism.

– Ms. Parker wore vest + radio, gathered with oath keepers w/ intent to obstruct. Had 3 weapons on her. made threats. [margin note: 128 months but given 5 years probation]

– People who threatened Nancy Pelosi.

– Judge did not approve the terrorism enhancement.

– Judge Contreras case, “I view this as overreach”

Judge – Is there anything uniquely about this case?

Ms. Rueda has never had criminal issues before. She has a very bright daughter. Sister + family are here to support.

If 10yr consecutive for count 4, she wouldn’t be out until after her daughter goes through the hardest years of her lives. Additionally, the hardships she’s already gone through. Her father got cancer and died. She wasn’t able to see him or attend funeral. She’s lost her home, and will likely not be able to own again. Loved pets. Recently became certified as a doula + has plans for the future to become a death doula motivated by her experiences while incarcerated.

Re: public. Her daughter is a member of the public. mutual aid.

Judge – I’ve read the letters

Akhalid – summaries cases sited in the sentencing brief

Judge: I’ve read your briefs. I’ve had plenty of time.

Response from Prosecutor

– She brought her daughter to the daytime protest

– She involved her husband

this will be a guideline sentence

1   60 mo            840 month consecutively

3   180

3                    will run concurrenty w/ future

4                    BCF202500975              churches

12  280 m            4/3 District

No fine imposed

Restitution is required w/ codefendants

    4,408095

must pay $50 per month on release

Supervised release for 2 years

    Conditions:

U       – mandatory + standad conditions

        – addition terms

Even w/o the guidelines, I believe this is the

correct sentence.

Objection Akhalid — Unreasonable — overruled

                    sentence

Judge – You can appeal at any time, [crossed out]

    You have 14 days to provide notice of appeal.

                                    from preliminary

                                    order

-Final order of forfeiture — property is condemned

    + forfeited

Objection

Akhalid — sentence is unreasonable

        — [something related to guidelines]

Judge: cites case where court is not allowed

        to second guess guiddines

US v Song

Represented by Altayes

Prosecutor Smith

**Judge**

Preliminary motions

Motion for Aquittal                  }

                                     } Denied + issues

Motion to set aside decision         )    preserved

Judge heard trial, reviewed decisions

Additional objections?

1   Riot

2   material support for terrorism

3

4   Explosives

7   Att murder

8-10 Discharge

     Fire arm

PSR recieved in timely manner

Objection recieved in timely manner

14 Objections filed — overruled + preserved

Anything new?

Altayes; no all included in written objections

Category    Guideline calculations using: — adopting recommendations

6                                              by probation

    1

    2

    3

    4

    7

    8-10

        50,000 — 500,000 + costs of prison + supervision

Altayes Presentation

3 character witnesses

1st witness: Donna Kim?

    I’m here in support of B Song + family. Family

friend since 1993. What struck me about how

attentive + itelligent he was at a young age.

Bright. Species in the barrier reef. Seen him

grow. Granfather + grandmother is music teacher.

Pressure to acheive + succeed. Always been supportive

of brothers. Younger serving in military + in

Germany Right now. Other younger. Younger bro

is college student at VTA. tells hopeless but I’m

                                            wisdom

hoping the court will see that he can gain knowledge

+ reflect + see how powerful the government really

is. He’s lost all the rights he believes in.

He’s a marine. Lost his 2nd amendment right.

Won’t be able to attend protests so there’s his

1st amendment gone. He has my support + the

support of the family. Please have leniency.

Jim Yakubsky

I’ve know Been since 2006. He was in my US

history class. He powerlifted for me + went

to state 2 years. 113lb bodyweight benched ___ 235?

Never had a problem with him. He did everything

asked. He was a great team player. Regional

championship. Seen him since highschool. Seems like

the same kid I knew. Very respectful, very

intelligent conversions. Listened very well +

was very coachable. this was is a very

valueable characteristics for an athlete.

Listen + execute.

Paul Song

Ben’s uncle. Known him his whole life + I love him

                                        com

very much. Has 3 kids of his own. Passionate.

Growing up w/ his kids + younger brothers showed

great leadership + mentorship qualities. As a

young kid, he applied to take the SAT + got accepted

to Duke on his own w/o telling his parents. Very

                                        of him

intelligent. We were always proud for joining

the marines. 4th of July was a difficult day.

my daughter lost one of her best friends in the flood.

the whole situation is heartbreaking + I feel

horrible that we may be loosing someoneelse.

I want to send himlove +

Altayes

Letters + witness

He’s gone to dozens

J   If were in a place where we can use

    “suppression fire” against police, we are

    in a bad place in history. Lord help us.

    if we think we can use suppressive fire towards

    police.

He’s lucky he wasn’t killed. He had a tricked out

weapon. Luckily police officer fired blind + hit

him in the magazine to jam it.

No indication Song was ringleader

Judge – The evidence was OVERWHELMING

the other 30,000 days of this mans life. Peaceful

kindhearted

Judge – aggravate assaut

Altayes – Not convicted b/c there was no evidence

Statement:

   Thank family. I don’t hate. I don’t hate anyone. I don’t hate cops. I don’t hate trump. Alex Pretti

Interrupted – this is not the place to make a political state

But fear is not hate. Sadness is not hate. So when I was standing in the street w/ reflective strips. When I saw Lt. Gross run + point his weapon

– gun instructor

– not ambush

– it acquitted attempted murder charges

– I was shot

– I’m happy were[?] not here morning

Judge interrupts

I’d like to continue my statement

22 people arrested

Didn’t do anything

collective pushment

Judge interrupts – should not be a public statement, not a rally

– hid evidence

– removed all Black jurors

– I could not say self-defense

– tortured their own witness

– heart[?]

– 50+ women testified she’d dbi[?] tortured

– Nothing saddens me more than to think of how many

– Government has been infiltrated by hate

– I am not a member of antifa

– Government blinded by hate + rounded up 22 people

– what kind of people are not against fascism, genocide

– domestic terrorism label   ex. Pretti

– did not run

– survive to do the right thing

S – interrupts – I’m really trying to be kind + polite

Response by A Smith

Sentence – will impose guideline sentences

1   60 m

2   180 m            1,200 m consequtively[?]

3    “

4   120 m            concurrently w/ any further charges

7   240 m         in case  BC-F20200299

8   120 m              in Johnson county

9   120 m

10  120 m

            no fine for cost of incarcerated

            Restitution w/ codefendants  + Sikes + Baumann

            $4,408.95

            same as Rue[?]

Recommended participation in program

Re: Forfeiture – condemned + forfeited

Supervised release for 5 years

must comply w/ conditions:

   – mandatory conditions

   – standard conditions

   – addition terms from order made available this morning

   – $800

Given the facts of the case, that it could have been a slaughter, shows no remorse, sentence would have been the same even without guidelines.

A Hayes[?]

Objective on constitutional grounds – overruled

J: Right to appeal + option to apply for gov attorney

LIZ Soto

Represented by Burns + Harmony Sherman

Received forfeiture motion last night

A Smith response allows gov to seize all property

– things seized from protest + at home

– HQ of EGBC → front for DFW Antifa

Objections

Response – Lack of notice, nexus, + 4th Amendment right to unreasonable search

Response – there is no nexus requirement

Court grants preliminary motion for forfeiture

motion for aquittal / motion for new trial – issues are well presdoted[?], preserved, and denied after reviewing trial, transcripts

convicted of:

1   riot

2   material support to terrorism

3   conspiracy to use explosive

4   explosive

Reviewed PSR with client

Timely Filings

29 objections filed by defense

– Obj 20 para – sustained

– Obj 21 – sustained

– Obj 14 – sustained

The remaining 26 objections are overruled based on trial evidence + PSR

A Sherman

Forseeability issue reiterated during sentencing for 5th circuit rulings

Having served as an apellate judge myself, I

Objection by A Sherman because trial transcripts were not available

Gov stated in closing arguments that Sotos are not part of affinity group

[margin note: included complete quote to put on record]

Judge gave more time between trial + sentencing than in any other case he’s heard

1  180                          Base level 43

2  180                          Category 6

3  180

4  120

50,000 – 500,000

14 character letters reviewed

Downward departure — prior criminal history

    40 yo w/ no criminal history, 1st time offender

Soto did not have weapon, did not participate in planning, was not in chat, left when asked

Mr. Song’s intent to kill or use suppressive fire was in no way for escape to Liz

Witness: Keren

Known her for 12 years

Patience, kindness, poured into me. Relationship evolved into sisterhood. Liz stepped when her father died from cancer. She’ll be thanking her for the rest of her life.

Encouraging her children to try + she is this way with everyone

– summer anecdote

Buys school supplies for children + others

Difficulties during incarceration

Liz did not make a statement

Sentence  — Guideline sentence is appropriate

1  60m              — will not grant dow

2  180m          600m consecutively

3  240m

4  120m                  concurrently w/ future charges

                              from JoCo case

        No fines

    Restitution w/ codefendants + Baumann + Sikes

        4,408.95      to court for Prairieland DC

For future ordered

2 years of supervised release w/ conditions:

    – mandatory conditions

    – standard conditions

    – additional conditions

    – $400 (100 per count)

Guidelines are appropriate + shows justification [?]

    protects public

Objection unreasonable, + 8th amendment

Clarification of factual findings on preponderance + —

Findings are well supported, jury decided beyond a reasonable doubt, I sat through this case for 3 weeks

Right to appeal. Consult w/ attorneys to sign notice of appeal w/in 14 days.

Meagan Morris

Represented by A St. John

Both names used in case (Bradford + Meagan)

Meagan – Bradford used in the past

A Smith

Amendment of

Forfeiture — Removing minivan + 2017 mercedez [?]

– **Approved**  — will not be forfeited

Outstanding motions (aquittal + alternatively new trial)

    – **Denied**

No additional objections from St. John

Background

1  riot

2  material support to terrorism

3  conspiracy to use explosives

4  explosives

PSR + objections filed timely

8 objections filed — Denied + preserved for appeal

PSR results

        43                                  43

Guidelines: category 6

        1

        2  120

        3

        4

        50,000 – 500,000 + prison costs

Character letters reviewed before hearing

Presentation by A St John

I’m grateful to have had a father. Not all children have that. That is my client. Not an excuse for crime. These guidelines are optional, not mandatory. You have power. I won’t stand here for a long time, I trust you. Ya can use

Judge: Do you want to make a statement?

A St John: You don’t have to.

Meagan: All I ever wanted to do was help people. I never wanted what happened at PDC to happen. It was horrible + I was scared.

A Smith: 42 yo woman, no criminal history, we usually see juvenile history

– She was central in planning, 56th street, armed, tried to escape. Therefore argue for guideline sentences.

Put [?] Sentence –

1  60m

2  180m              600m consecutively

3  240m

4  120m              and concurrently with any additional

                          charges from associated

                              JoCo case

    No fines

    Restitution w/ codefendants + Baumann + Sikes

        $4,408.95

← Forfeiture amended

Supervision after release w/ conditions:

    – mandatory

    – standard

    – additional from order 64-2

    – $400

Sentence sufficient, reflects seriousness, demonstrates respect of the law . . . ,

would have ordered 600m sentence even w/o guidelines

Right to appeal

—

### Court Notes — EW — 2026-06-23

8:25 Pittman enter

prelim comment.

warn .outburst not tolerated

need to .exit if you feel need

1st person will be .escorted

2nd person will held contempt

leave cannot .return at break

no phone use

no vulgarities or facial expressions from anyone

US vs Song

Atty requests to bring witness in

Judge – you need to be ready to g°

US v. Rueda

ref #6

Soto —

π .filed ordered multiple time to .file status

Deny motion for mistrial unless additional info

Atty focus on sentencing today

P has nothing to add

Motion to deny

Motion for forfeiture –

P gov’t can seize ALL personal property

Δ gov’t failed to show how the jeep is subject to forfeiture. Was not used at a [?] protest.

P nothing matters. gov’t can take anything and

everything, they use discression to limit to items

used in crime. jeep used in surveillance

√ Motion denied. Begin sentencing

on .march found guilty riot, conspiracy, use of

explosives,… Did Δ .receive & review sentencing

report?

Δ Yes

√ 9 objections lodged and 2 to addendum. Before

rejecting, something to add?

Δ Would like specific findings of Rule 32.

√ They are overruled. Adopt findings of fact.

Guidelines

Δ Rueda is a 33 yo mother w/no criminal history

Attended protest that took turn she was shocked

by. The guidelines calculated using terrorism

enhancement have a wide disp. from other

cases with similar charges. Jan 6 defendants

average 26 months with more specific evidence

√ I know the condition of Jan 6. They were

charged differently. Do you have mitigating

info?

Δ Charged differently, but conduct was similar.

Most cases did not apply terrorism enhancement.

(Gives examples of specific S(ent.)). Very short sentences.

Judges noted uniqueness when terrorism enhancement

sought because intent is required.

√ So your point is terrorism enhancement is

not appropriate. Anything specific to this

case?

Δ Ms. Rueda is a [margin note: good] mother and her husband is

a co-defendant. Mandatory 10 year sentence

would make her miss the most imp years

of her child’s life. Lost father, lost home,

just became a doula, and wants to become

a death doula. Child is a member of public.

To punish child is [margin note: harm] that can’t

be undone.

√ I’ve reviewed everything

Δ Ms Rueda’s conduct is not more serious

that others who have faced shorter

sentences

√ Ms Rueda wish to speak?

Δ Advised not to speak

√ Pros wish to add

P Ms. Rueda used her daughter and husband

in the prep & aftermath

√ Judgement — 60 month

180 month

120 month  } Consecutively

**240 month**

840 months

no fine. Ordering restitution with other

defendants 4,480. $50/month. 2 years supervised

release.

Right to appeal senten.sl. Speak to your atty.

Δ Object to sentencing un.reasonable

√ Overruled

√ US v Song

motions .acquittal & set aside judgement. Motions

are denied.

– Review of charges

– confirm reciept of presentencing documents

– 1,2,3,7  7-20m    GUIDELINES

4

8,9,10  120-L

9:21  Δ Character Witnesses

Ms Kim: family friend Known since 1995. Smart kid

Seen him grow. Loving family. Imm from Korea

Pressure to achieve & succeed. Brother Lucas

serving military in Germany… sad day…hopeless…

court consider…ability to grow. His a changed

person already. Request – has support of

family & friends, request leniency.

Jim Yakebovsky [?]: I’ve known Ben since 2006,

US Hist class. Never had a problem. Always

did what asked. Good team player. As a coach

I never had a reason to be mad. Seen him a

few times since HS, seems like the same person.

Well respected by everyone. Listens well. Went to

state to years and everyone respected him.

Very personable.

[margin note: Paul] Mr. Song: uncle, his fathers much younger brother

Ben very compassionate. Shows great leadership

qualities. Shows persistence. At 12 applied to

take SAT and applied to Duke on his own.

Student athlete. Family proud of him joining

marines. Always had strong convictions.

Family understands the severity of what

happened. 12 yo daughter lost a friend in

flood. Reflect that we could lose another person.

Have confidence he will take advantage of that.

Δ : DIFFICULT TO HEAR… attend dozens of protests

and never hurt anyone.

√ : Intriguing arguments at trial about

suppresive fire. If we allow suppressive

fire as self defense, god help us. It is

by the grace of god that the officers firing blindly

hit the magazine & jammed the gun. Mr Song

could have been dead & we could have had

many other people at Prairieland dead. Don’t

give me anymore suppressive fire defense.

Δ Peaceful demonstrations before

J Arrested aggravated assault 2024

Δ CAN’T HEAR

J make statement

CHAMPAGNE: I don’t want to see anyone

hurt.

J: Not the time & place to make a political speech

C: when I was standing in plain view

what I saw was my worst nightmare.

I knew what Gross’s position meant.

I did my best to avoid hurting anyone.

J: No political statements

C: 22 people arrested. None of them did

anything this is collective punishment & it’s

wrong…

J: Tell me about you.

C: So first they covered up evidence & removed

all of the black jurors, tortured their

own witnesses, 3 people died in tarrant

county jail this week. Punished for

speaking up. Gov’t called me ANTIFA.

It doesn’t exist but they’ve rounded up 22

people. What kind of people are not

against fascism? When Pretti & Good

shot called terrorists w/in hr.

I don’t fear for myself. I fear

for all of you.

J: Do you have anything about you?

C: I believe those are all the points I wanted

   to make.

J: Judgement

        1,200 months run concurrently with

    any charges in Johnson county. Restitution

    with others.

10:00 US v E Soto

Notice of forfeiture discussion.

P Residence used for ANTIFA. Government can

   take ALL assets.

Δ In addition to lack of notice, violation of 4th

   unreasonable seizure of documents

P: There was a warrant and there is no nexus

   requirement.

J: granting motion for prelim for future

   motions for acquittal & retrial – denied

   presentencing docs received & reviewed

   ↳ review of charges

   def lodged 29 objections

   obj 20 ¶ 7.7   sustained

   obj 21 ¶ 5    sustained

   obj 14         sustained

   Remaining 26 objections overruled

Δ

J As far as I’m concerned anything you’ve

submitted is well preserved for the 5th circuit

review guidelines

        1, 2,3   480 mo

Δ Criminal history sits at 6 because of terrorism

   charge. She is 40 yo and has never been

   arrested. Outlines roles of all other defendants

   Song shooter, Evetts planner, Rueda recon. Song’s

   actions not foreseeable.

Ms. Soto: CAN’T HEAR ANYTHING

J: requests speak in mic.

Soto: kind gentle patient encourage children

to try …MUMBLE… at no cost…

Δ: E Soto does not wish to speak at this time

P: Nothing to add

J: Judgement

            60

           180

           240

           120

          600 months

    Concurrently with JoCo sentencing

no fine. Restitution with others $ 4485.98

$50/mo.

Forfeiture ?

Supervised release

Δ Obj under 8th amendment

   clarification just on preponderance?

J: I think it is based on preponderance. I

sat on this case for 3 weeks. I’ve reviewed

all the evidence.

Review of Ms Soto’s rights

J US v Morris

   guidelines

Δ THICK DRAWL & MUMBLE

   A lot of people have bad childhoods, not excuse.

   Sentences so severe, she will die in prison

   Abuse by father, early death of mother…

J Wish to make statement

Morris: All I’ve ever wanted to do is help

people… I don’t know what happened. [CRYING]

It’s terrible.

P: She’s a 42 yo woman with no criminal history

related to these crimes. She was the one who

made it possible for others to gather there,

she was armed.

J: Judgement

        600 months. Concurrently with JoCo sentencing

no fine. Restitution with others. $50/mo.

Δ No legal objection

J: Review rights

---

HR (Pittman)

Champagne first

Mari[?]

Sup⁰[?]a is introduced

Mari[?] previous in[?] sunset[?]

does not make her appearance

in court, withdrawal from

case

motion for acquittal

↳deny motion

↳preserved for appellate

purposes

– outstanding proposed

motion for forfeiture

Smith, 481 A1 G – allows all asset

to be seized by someone convicted

of terrorism – house, car

jeep

sup⁰a – statutory/no Gov fail[?]

to show why the jeep was

used to commit terrorism

– legally owned

– not used to transport

fireworks, people, etc

Champagne to eve[?]

Declaration for admission

– additional records

SS: Claims all personal belongings

belong to the state

– claims the jeep was used for

reconnaissance

→ government only proceeding on jeep

forfeiture, not administrative

forfeiture of electronics

Sentencing

[circled: cond] lists charges

overrule object – preserved B-affred[?]

sup⁰a: specific factual finding

Judge “unsupported and overruled”

↳discounts her experience have

you ever handled a case in FW[?]

Count 12& -124 months

$450,000-$500,000

thermin[?] – 13 year old, no criminal history

[circled: a v]

– did not anticipate what happened

– only planned for civil disobedience

and trespassing charges

– brings up J[illegible]

↳prosecution, probation

↳avrage[?] sentence – 26 months

↳riot was charged here

↳aimed at influencing

gov

Pittman interrupts, π deff[?]

between this and J[illegible] π

this was charged differently

– conduct was less serious

here than J[illegible]

– most courts did not

apply the terrorism enhancement

– Everyone has been pardoned ?

– ↳121 months → 5 year

probation (Sandra fram[?])

↳details her crimes

↳ of violence

↳12 months – 36 months

– all of them would h

qualified for the terrorism

– For this case specifically, Mari[?]

is a mother, her husband

– her daughter is deeply affected

– emphasizes Stevie[?]

– after the hardest years of

her life

– not able to be at her father’s

bedside

– 1 year of detention

↳lost her house

– lost pets

– still has her daughter

– just became a doula,

support other pregnant

people

– interested in being a death

doula

– She has plans for the future

– countless studies, what happens

when the bond is broken

Pittman – appreciates all the effort

12/840 70

how many years?

Brings up foreign material

support of terrorism

not – more serious than Al Quada[?]

ISIS, etc

not advised to make a

statement for appellate

purpose

SS: Brought her daughter @

day time protest

– involved husband after the

fact

– used her family for the

attack

sentence: 60 mon

180

280 months

240 months

[circled: 840 months]

70 years

2 year

probation → restitution: $4,408.95

$50/mon[?]

Objection: Sentence is unreasonable

**appeal**

notice of appeal in 14 days

**forfeiture order**

**Champagne**

motion for acquittal

denied

**Character witness**

Kim — family friend

since 1993

– weight lifting coach

  – good teammate

  – listens

[margin note: why even try with this courtroom]

**Judge** brings up aggravated

assault charge from 2020

– Judge says Song is lucky

Champagne π interrupted

once Alex Pretti +

Renee Good

“interrupted — not the time and

place to make political

statement”

“Guilt by association”

interrupted again

when bring up white

supremacy

removed every Black

juror

**Sentence** 1200 months

run concurrently with

the state case

[margin note: π?]

**Seize all assets**

**for forfeiture**

  → headquarters of Emma Goldman

    Bookclub

Judge: lack of notice

SS: only things related to the

case

Harmony: unreasonable seizure

SS: all assets

Judge: granting prelim[?]inary

  for forfeiture

motion for acquittal, denied[?]

π saved[?] for appellate[?]

purposes

Background on case: 1, 2, 3, 4

  reading

**Defense — 29 objection to**

**PSR**

[margin note: sister-in-law]

Harmony — reiterated for

the purpose of appeal

– Did not have trial transcript

– not in July 4 chat, not

  in affinity[?] group

**Judge**: 480 months, expected

4/14 character letters

Harmony — over-representation

of criminal history

(e-terrorism charge, not

he record[?]

– witnesses presented

– did not participate in any

  of the planning

– Song — shooter

Rueda — planning + reconnaissance

Morris — logistics

[margin note: Is she having other people undo the bail?]

– Song’s intent to kill was

not foreseeable by Soto

Kim — kindness + gentleness

there for her after father

passed

– need to be there for her

  children

– helps other kids get school

  supplies

– Liz does not wish to make a

  statement at this time

**sentence**: 600 months   12/600

  50 years

**Harmony**: unreasonable

  unconstitutional

  objection

overruled, preserved

  for appellate

@ Meagan Morris

– misgender her

– ask Meagan about her name

  & deadname

SS removing forfeiture of minivan

– Joelle’s[?] car – removed forfeiture

– belongs to other people, not defendant

motion of acquittal[?] retrial denied

reads conviction

WSJ – 8 objections filed for PSR

all overruled, preserved

WSJ – stoking judge’s ego

– bad childhood

– so severe, she will die in prison

– involved in the issue

– childhood abuse from father, early death of mother

– life in prison – be fair & honest

Meagan – “All I ever wanted to do was help people

– just wanted people inside to know we were out there

– she didn’t intend what happened to have happened

– 42 year old woman – SS gender her correctly

– central to planning, tried to escape, armed

**sentence: 600 months – 50 years**

WSJ – DID NOT object to sentencing

—

JMA (O’Connor)

Judge O’Connor Courtroom                                         23 June 2026

Autumn Hill

π — defendants do not like the govt or police. They believe violence

is justified and are incredibly dangerous,

to protect public they require long

sentencing. Hard to protect with a light

sentence bc defendants have fundamental

belief in requirement for violence.

Δ — Hope the court has had a chance

to look at objections & evidence to

court. Govt argument that Mr Gatto

has

Article 3 is important – independent

branch to put in check executive

branch – prosecution in this case.

Hyperbolic bogey man created for

this case. Ms Hill is set apart

as an individual far removed from

the next culpable defendant in this case

and is not violent. The zines

are antithetical to each other,

hodgepodge of political ideas – no

evidence from these that Ms Hill

was engaged in violence.

Claim that during gear check

Ms Hill had a gun was not

true. She is not part of any of the

associations (ex: SRA) that other

defendants are. “Satanic Death Cult”

publication – govt never even opened to

see that it was a movie review.

We saw their imagination run wild

throughout the case. Ms Hill is least

culpable defendant. She never held

a gun at any point. No one ever

testifies that she ever held a

firearm or spraypaint. An outsider

not known to most of the defendants

went on his own to vandalize.

No reason to think Ms Hill even knew

this was happening. The govt pulled

a handful of fireworks near the

fence but most fireworks were fired

at the sky. There is no evidence

Ms Hill was part of the group

shooting fireworks – she even paused to

pick up the trash, she didn’t even want

to leave litter behind –

she doesn’t find out about the

violence until she gets home. She

cries when she finds out about her

friends. There should be individualized

sentencing – she was not a part of these

exclusive chat groups where they

discussed the worst acts. This is a

difficult case not because of the

evidence but because of the implication,

the audience. I think any sentence

handed by the court is not something

I can condone

Autumn: I am extremely glad no one was

injured, Lt Gross was able to

go home to his family a few hours after.

When I went to protest, it seemed more

like a party than a protest, the atmosphere

was festive, we planned to continue

later at home that night. The

precautions my friends took were

normal because of how the public

responds to protests.

All I have ever wanted was for

people to get home to their families

and to get home to my wife.

Judge:

Sentence: 60 mo count 1

          180     count 2

          240     count 3

          120     count 4

          600 months    DCF 202[?]

$4408 restitution to PL center

   $100/mo to be paid no later than 60

   days after release

My opinion that supervised release

for 2 years per count concurrent.

$100/count for total of $400

Overruled objection

Defendant hosted gear check at

residence. Was in presence of

Song when his plan was announced

Traveled in van w/ firearms

Defendant was very involved w/

planning/staging of crimes.

Defendant does not like the govt’s immigration

policy. Violence is not way to

combat this. You have right to

appeal. Notice must be filed within

14 days.

Δ: Want to clarify if court has looked

at evidence submitted to court

Judge (ANGRY, RAISED VOICE: Looked at PSR. You can appeal.

—————————–

Zachary Evetts

Judge: I have reviewed PSR and briefing.

I have overruled your objections,

reject motion for new trial or acquittal.

Based upon what govt seeks

forfeiture in their response, these

items are properly forfeited.

Δ: Perhaps we should have had a

more clear verdict.

Judge: Evidence does support forfeiture.

count 1, 2, 3   408 months } run concurrently

count 4         120 months }

        3 yrs/count $50,000

Gov’t: Crux is their firm belief that

firearm use is justified. Evetts

almost got away, he was right

next to Song when shots fired.

Defense: We have 3 persons to speak to

you.

CW1 (Character Witness 1) Russel McKinley

met Zach summer 2007 in

academic program. Spent countless

hours talking about philosophy, religion,

rhetoric.

Thinks very deeply about his beliefs

and actions. Bound by ethical

convictions. During my long & messy

divorce I was lucky to have Zach

in my corner. He was not angry/volatile

and remained steadfast. Could not

have survived without his kindness.

Zach is a caretaker, big brother, &

mentor.

CW2 Brandon Smith

Educator, got to know Zach as a

college student. Man of faith, father,

strive to do good, after years of

introspection, get fulfillment from

helping others, Zach is same way.

Zach has been my teacher and demonstrated

these qualities to me. He stands out

as most reliable/caring out of thousands

of students. During incarceration offered

to help other student with engineering

project. Zach seeks to help others

wherever he is. But can do most

good where he can be among people.

Implore you to ask questions about

Zach’s character.

CW3 Brooke Evetts

Little sister,

I used to think he was boring but the

older I got I appreciated the calm

demeanor, he got good grades and

became an engineer, married the love of his life.

→

I know my brother regrets that

night, that Lt Gross was ever injured,

wishes that he was home with his wife

and his cats. He would never

think to put his family in this

position again. He

Zach Evetts:

I believe myself to be

fully innocent of these charges.

I do respect the process that found

me guilty of four of 10 charges.

I will be seeking appeal.

I left my house that night to

exercise my rights. My intent

was to attend a peaceful event.

I regret how that night turned out.

I did not intend for anyone to get

hurt. I hope that the character

letters in my PSR will show that

I care about other people.

I hope you take this to heart

for sentencing/probation. I am not

a danger to the community and

will abide by all conditions.

Defense: I don’t know how to make this

request, it has been a strange 2026

for us involved in this case.

Every night we think, was this

the best course? There are many

things I wish I had done. But I must

correct things said by the gov’t.

They said Zach was doing reconnaissance.

This is a man who believed very

strongly that

He wanted to point out how to stay

off the property. He did the opposite

of reconnaissance. He was worried about

safety. Lt Gross got out his

pistol and aimed at somebody

fleeing. Baumann had shown up

to vandalize, he got caught at the

scene and tried to blame Sikes.

Sikes cooperated w/ the gov’t, then

Baumann changed his story to blame

Evetts and claimed he was next to

Mr. Song. There is no other evidence.

Had Mr. Song not reacted w/

suppressive fire to Lt Gross,

this would have been a matter

for Johnson County. You can see

from his communications that Zach

was always anxious about everyone’s

safety. We argue that Evetts

is not a man who wants to

break the law or wishes violence

but to stand up for the rule of

law and to exercise his first

amendment rights.

Requests probation

Judge: 

60 mo Count 1

108 mo Count 2

240 mo Count 3

120 mo Count 4

600 months concurrent

No fine — $4800 to be paid to PL in restitution

$100/mo 60 days after sentence

2 yrs/count supervised release

thereafter

$400/count additional

Judge:

Large # of support letters &

memorandum – sentence is significant.

Defendant discussed fireworks & other

items, was there that morning to

conduct surveillance, confirmed everyone

was to wear black bloc, ballistic

vests. The need for protection for the public

from things of this nature is high.

Defendants actions were not standing

up to autocratic regime. Those

following this case need to know that

conducting terrorism is not the way.

You may follow with an appeal.

—————————-

Savanna Batten

J: are Overruled objections submitted / post

trial motions are denied

Status of forfeiture – no forfeiture

guidelines: 480 mo counts 1, 2, 3

120 mo count 4

consecutive

supervised release 3 yrs

$ 50000 – 500000

Govt: She shares views that violence is

required action. Govt did not

charge her w/ all of the charges,

she was not present for gear check/

chats but we found a photo in her

phone at EGBC where present was

Liz Soto, Ines Soto where they are

a throuple, they were always together. Sitting near them was B Song.

This was a connection and we

believe she knew as she and

Sotos are always together and

rode with, Ines took part in

planning. She believes violence

is okay.

Defense: Govt is grasping at straws to

connect her. PSR states four

planning events, she was not

part of them, any group chat

or earlier protest. Was not present

at gear check or pre-planning.

There was a search of her residence

where they found a map completely

unrelated to event, and a photo

from her book club. She had

no knowledge. For sentencing this

is extremely telling, she was

not charged with counts 5, 6, 7.

Rioting / firearm charges indicate

involvement in property destruction

not violence. Character witnesses (CW)

available.

CW1 Cynthia

Mother.

Best person I know. Compassion

Trying to make world a better

place for people / animals. Non violent

person.

CW2 Amber

Sister

Observed her throughout her life.

Many pets / animals – compassion

Pg 14

~ Age 12, became vegan due to animal abuse.

Strict vegan – activism started in

animal rights, then human rights / anti-war,

anti-ice recently.

Aunt to neices / nephews, never misses

a bday, teaches the kids, provides

emotional support to all – best

person I know.

Mother Theresa figure to many

who have met her.

Baking / cooking – wants to open a

bakery – feeds people, unhoused,

feeds animals – over 10-15 years

would be working to build her

business & standing up for those

without a voice.

Defense: Govt has a different view of her

reasons for going to PL. Her

lack of involvement is telling,

No possession of firearms including

search of her person / residence, only

med kit. Not in SRA. Of 9 defendants,

she is least culpable. No evidence.

Pg 15

Lack of violent criminal history,

prior arrests were aquitted & were

civil disobedience – occupy wall street,

even her history support who she is,

her concern for community.

Sentencing range exists for a reason but

she has been in custody for 354 days

Request time served.

Vanna: no comment

Judge:

60 mo count 1

180 mo count 2 

240 mo count 3

120 mo count 4

600 months consecutive

Restitution $4808.95 to PL

Considered factors & PSR & determined

2 yrs supervised release after sentence

Defense: objection

Judge: overruled – punishment / deterrent

In Soto car, had 9mm pistol, Black bloc, med kit –

original planners told to do this.

Willing participant – knew what was

going on – context & relationship to

Sotos. The need to deter this kind of

conduct is high. Not first time

she has broken the law. Likely to

reoffend. Objection overruled-

You may appeal.

Govt – nothing further.

___________________________________

**DES**

Judge – Objections –

Guidelines: 480 mo

Forfeiture order – vacated yesterday by Judge Pittman

Δefense – 9 points

– Govt abandoned claim that items on exhibit A

are proceeds of the offense.

– Govt has not yet explained / withdrawn

allegations from incorrect paragraphs

–

– Defendant must be convicted of

… for criminal forfeiture but

client was **NOT** convicted of

terrorism charge or specific intent

~ Terror provision not invoked –

notice failed to mention this

– 2nd superceding indictment does not

invoke forfeiture – no specifics –

items from truck but not truck

itself

– Absence of adequate …

If indictment does mention

Mackintosh vs US

Entitled to return of property

– Task force officer questioned

him without reason / brought up

arrest of his wife but not certain

of charges – but said terrorism &

aggravated assault, refering to

state charges, not federal – state

charge of terrorism is predicated by

agg. assault- For forfeiture,

state prosecution cannot be cause for

– federal charges

Suggests that motivation is

for political

Sanchez’s belongings, moved from

his parents house to apt in Denton

Not ‘sure why” word “Antifa” is

even mentioned – crimes are not

inherently terroristic

– Ask court to deny govt’s motion

for forfeiture – no evidence was

presented

Govt (almost yelling): 

Short of taking action – they all

took action! illegally! including Des.

Just bc govt stated wrong statute… they

knew case was about obstructing

his wife’s case. Forfeiture states

correct statute. It applies here.

Crime was concealing federal crime of

terrorism. Des switched on a dime

when being interrogated. On phone

call (Mari’s) mother is told Des is

“part of this community” He

knew what was going on. He

– told his wife on the phone that

he was “up to speed”. It wasn’t

about taking care of bunnies.

Judge – Not comfortable ordering forfeiture

without correct statutes

No notice in document re: truck,

I will not order forfeiture as part

of judgment.

Post trial motion for aquittal is denied.

Govt: He clearly shares in their ideology,

he joined in to try to obstruct.

This shows he believes violence is

a requirement

Defense: Punishment must fit crimes, not

politics, not fears. He did not

plan, was not present, not in

chats – not charged w/ terrorism.

He moved his own property, the

govt did not use these items.

Nothing in the box determined

the outcome of the trials.

Proportionality matters.

30 yr sentences have been imposed

to ISIS extremists. Words matter.

I don’t think we are taking the

word terrorism seriously. It is not

a synonym for moving boxes.

Govt argues that defendant is

guilty bc of thought crimes.

I have seen actual terrorism.

The distinction matters. If every

protest becomes terrorism, the word

loses meaning. 1st amendment

protects both popular & unpopular

beliefs. Defendant faces decades

of for imprisonment.

After the actions occurred, govt

claims a conspiracy began.

Items are from 2021 or before, how

could they be evidence of a crime

from 2025

There must be proof. They only

became evidence after questioning

Sanchez. 36 people wrote letters

oh his behalf. This event

is an exception. The govt accidentally

released him. Any other person

would have ran. He called the

marshall and voluntarily went

back into imprisonment.

30 yrs is greater than necessary.

He has more than lost his freedom

10-16 months recognizes this reality.

The govt argument is not “this

conduct” but that “he knows these

people”. Punishment should fit the

crime.

Des:

    Lived here since 14 yrs old,

regular upbringing, love for education,

degree in biology, family of teachers,

love for literature and libraries and

art. I hold this very dear. As a teacher

I worry for the students social and

emotional well being, how important

reading is, being a mentor, building

community. Run a hip hop club

teaching kids dance

loving / care for others. I have worked

very hard to overcome challenges and

not doing wrong, community and

advocating for human rights, past 6-7

yrs stopped activism but focused on

career and art, using political

engagement in this way to give

back to others. Quote Ben Franklin

– he ran a print shop, his brother

was imprisoned for publishing pamphlets

One of the founders of the country that

helped create constitution. First

amendment is most important.

Left my 13 yr old stepdaughter,

I am a father, husband, teacher, poet,

not a terrorist.

Judge:

    Remind govt: accept addendum,  objections overruled

Sentencing:                  

120 mo Count 11 

240 mo Count 12 

360 mo consecutive

1 yr/count supervised upon release, concurrently

Mandatory special assesment $200

Defense: objection to conspiracy count,

              guidelines & sentencing

Judge: running consecutive,

            objection overruled

        argument of moving a box – stakes were

            that terrorist attack occurred &

            defendant was a part of that.

        Sentencing serves to deter others from this

        type of conduct.

        Right to appeal.

—

### Court Notes — KI — 2026-06-23

KI — Judge O’Connor

| Song | Song   100 years |

| ~~Soto~~ | ~~Estrada~~ 50 ” |

| Cameron | Rueda – 70 ” |

| Evetts | Soto – 50 ” |

| Batten | |

| Sanchez | |

Hill — charges 1, 2, 3, 4    5-50 years

Deny any acquittal or retrial

**Hill:** Prosecutor says these people are extremely motivated.

★ Die hard belief — antifa. Act of terrorism. Don’t like

policy. No violence justified. Incredibly long sentence

is necessary. They believe violence is necessary.

Protection of public. ★ that violence is necessary.

**Defense:** govt acquired that # of    hyperbolic

boogie man govt created. No evidence she believes in

violence. “Lives — hodgepodge of ideas does not show

evidence that she had a gun, or trained in gun use.

Not part of these associations — socialists. Nothing in

her house connected her to violence. Stands apart from

this group. Evidence — she never held a gun in her

hand. Vandalism by all counts — individual not

with them did this. Hill not part of any plans

to vandalism. Fireworks — were not being used to

destroy property. Hill fired none. Hill paused as others

left    pick up garbage from fireworks. Then by ⊥er

car. Didn’t find out about violence until home. Govt

argue — they , they. She’s an individual. No evidence

she was part of exclusive chat groups. Part of group

that met regularly on Thursdays. Hill — spoke that glad

that all my friends are alive. Protest seemed like a party

truly didn’t think anything would go wrong that night.

~~Want time served~~ [illegible]

my friends took precautions — no expectation that would be

any violence.    Judge: 1-60  2-140  3-  4-    600 months

made fine: $4,435 restitution. Two cases — my concern with [illegible]

3 years supervised ~~release~~. Defense: objection —

overruled.    Judge: Hill in presence of Song who discussed violence.

In home — found guns, ammo/armor. Sufficient but not greater than

necessary. Curls riotous violence. Violent plan to oppose this

policy. Pervasive violence assault on democracy. Can appeal.

Evetts: Deny any motions or new trial. Evidence supports forfeiture.

1, 2, 3 –  480 mo; 4 – 120 mo  Supervised release 2-3 years

$50,000 + $500,000 restitution.  Prosecutor: He was there, right

next to Song when he shot.

For Evetts “Mr. Russell” + offspring (hard to hear) in favor of Evetts.

“His support of his kindness + during messy divorce. ~~Brandon~~

Smith — men of faith, father + educator. My personal mission

is + help others have a better future. Friends for years — demonstrated

is steadfast — most reliable in caring. Seeks to help others. Capacity

+ help others fix. Environment where … Implore you Judge) to ask

any questions.  Brooke Evans: knew him whole life (crying as

she tried to talk) … like a brother. Engineering student —  (Evetts) —

I am fully innocent. I do respect the process. July 4 — to

exercise my const right to bring support to these words.

My intent was 2 hour peaceful event. I regret how this

turned out. I saw somebody who cares about others. I assisted

people in jail — GED + learn ~~anothre~~ English. Request probation — not

not a danger to community. Defense: we hoped for acquittal.

object to print that he was doing “reconnaissance”. He was concerned

to check out park for safety. He wasn’t anywhere near Song

— body camera shows that. Whatever Song’s motivation — Evetts —

didn’t know. Not a man who wants to break law, … Exercised his

democratic rights. He wanted those inside to know there were

people who were inside [margin note: Judge] 1 – 60, 2 – 180  3 – 240 + 120 =

600 months. No fine. $4,435 + Prairieland. 2 years

per count. Special assessment $400. … Discussed

bringing fireworks    even. Then that morning told violence,

told people to wear black … Don’t like govt policy.

Planned actions were not.    Decided to do violence.

Engaging in terrorism + violence violates democratic right.

Can appeal.

Batten: Judge: re objections by defense — overruled. Acquittal

or new trial denied. 1 – 480, 2 – 480, 3 – 480 4 – 120 mo —

supervised no more than 3 years per count.  Prosecutor:

She also believes in violence. She was not present

not in group chat. On her phone — picture of 5 of them

(charged) including Song identified by snitch. Always

together — on her phone (incl Soto). They believe violence is

necessary.  Defense: grasping straws. Wasn’t present

at vandalism day, not part of … Search of her home, she

was alone, says the photo is from her book club. No

knowledge of plans for that night. Charged w/ rioting (1)

(2 + 3), relate to fireworks + property destruction.

Witness Cynthia Wilke: Mother — (crying) want to make

world a better place for people + animals. She’s a non-violent

person caring. Amber: big sister. Brought many animals

home — safety. Age # 12. Became vegan after learning about

industrial farms(etc). She’s an aunt to my children. Baker.

Feeds people unknowing + animals. Wants to launch own

business. Defense: prosecution want to demonstrate, that

night — no involvement in planning. No possession of firearms

in home or otherwise. She had a medical kit. By far least

culpable. Lack of criminal history — 2 prior arrests, not

charged — Occupy Wall Street. … In custody 554 days.

Want time served. Judge: 1-60  2-180  3-240 + 120    600 month.

Restitution to Prairieland $4,485. Supervised release 2 years

per count. — Possibility of  In car, there was 9 mm gun. She sat in

car w/others.  Were back, mask, mid Kfir bullet proof, willing

participant — had to know what planned. Not 1st time broken

law — what happened wasn’t a protest — assault on democracy.

Appeal.

·Estrada: Judge re objections — overruled all. Sustained obj by

probation officer(?). Forfeiture. — Defense: govt abandoned … wasn’t

explained or proved (9 pts). Wasn’t convicted of any specifics(?)

No allocution beyond — no suggestion of forfeiture of his truck — or

items in truck. ★ if not mentioned, govt should be sanctioned. Want

his items returned. Re terrorism — he was concerned that night

[margin note: charge against wife?] Can’t apply to federal charges. Some of

this motivated by protected conduct. (Boxes moved?) to parent’s

house. “Antifa” — none of the elements have that, not adherent to

terrorism. Prosecutor: … short of tabulations, not true. But

takes Illegal actions. They knew this was about — That is why

we were seeking forfeiture. Maintained — Hernandez(?). 9 when wife’s a

girl — he was connected to this community confirmed by wife

said to mother that disliked … All about him trying to conceal early

docs. Judge: new trial or acquittal denied. Prosecution: He stands

in all of this. Trying to obstruction … shared views. Defense:

punishment must fit the crime. Not at Prairieland, not in chats,

he moved a box of his own items. Nothing in box was illegal.

[margin note: details] what terrorism is + gave examples). Terrorism —

isn’t synonym for … They are punishing thoughts. Distinguish

acts from Antifa. Why didn’t matter that … did he act in

flagrant arrogance. (It was true 6 hours). Every item was

2021 + 2024 — not 2025. How to be proof that it applies to govt

charges. Without proof in Court accidentally let him out in

November. He didn’t turn for it. Voluntarily went back in

30 years would not reflect justice. Smith(?) moved a box.

30 years punishment by moving a box. He knows these

people, it’s not conduct. Justice loses it way when it imposed

this. Estrada: … my older sister + other family members

are teachers, one owns a bookstore. Art is very important to me.

Work in mentoring problem at school. I’m kind + loved others.

Work really hard in this country … volunteer in community —

animals, etc. Last # of years — work on my art. That’s my

political actions (animal shelter, women’s shelter). Talked about

Benjamin Franklin — writings while in jail. Not a terrorist [margin note: love my family + community]

Judge: [lots of conferring at bench] ~~assault~~  120 – 11  240 – 12

360 months. No fine. Supervised release 1 year for counts

11 + 12. &    $200 special assessment ($100/charge). Defense:

question of charge of conspiracy (overruled) Judge: 30 years

so appropriate. Problem was moving box because known

→ terrorist was on the run. Deter others from this kind +

of conduct. Right to appeal. … 30 years — Estrada

Hill — 600 months = 50 years

Evetts — 600 months = 50 years

Batten — 600 months = 50 years

Estrada — 360 months = 30 years

—

RG (Pittman)

– Sefl cut off → in motion Pittman

6/22  8:24

– ~~MEAGAN~~ RULE 33 – DENIED

  FORFEITURE – MARI’S CAR GRANTED

MARI PSR → 9 OBJECTION[?]S + 2 TO

ADENDUM[?] → 7 OVERRULED

  FINE 50K – GUIDELINES FOR

COUNTS GIVEN

– MARI LAWYER – PRESENTATION : MARI,

A MOTHER W/ NO CRIMINAL PAST. 26

MONTHS FOR JG’ERS VERSUS CHARGES /

SENTENCE FOR PRAIRIELAND DEFENDANTS

– MARI’S SENTENCE WAS GREATER THAN

ALL JG’ERS · MARI’S LAWYER COVERED

MARI’S BACKGROUND : MOM, DAD’S

DEATH (CANCER), DOULA, HOMEOWNER,

COMMUNITY SERVICE. ASKED FOR

MINIMAL . . . MARI ASKED TO NOT

MAKE A STATEMENT

– FEDS → BROUGHT DAUGHTER TO DAY

PROTEST

– 60M 180M 240M 140M 240M

  (540 MONTH) + STATE CHARGES

– RESTITUTION ORDERED 4K2[?] ≈ 4,400

– 60 DAY AFTER RELEASE – JUDGE

– SUPERVISED RELEASE TWO YEARS

AFTER 10[?]

AT PROTEST, RAISE LOT → WHEN

WHAT MEANT, TOUCHED W/ WHAT

HAPPENED – JUDGE CUT OFF – GOT

PPL KILLED BY POLICE · GUILT BY

ASSOCIATION – JUDGE WORDS –

EVIDENCE HIDE, NO BLACK JURORS,

NO DEFENSE ARGUMENT, TURNED BY

STATE. CASE A WARNING FOR

DISSENT · GOV MOTION FOR LIFE

SENTENCE – HATE IN GOV, DOMESTIC

TERROR CHARGE = GOV CAN TAKE

YOUR LIFE. HOW WILL WE HELP

EACH OTHER ?

– FEDS ?

– SENTENCE : NO DOWNWARD VARIANCE

  60 MONT, 180 M  240 M

       240 M 120 M  120 M

120 M – 10 ~~1200~~ MONTHS –

CONCURRENT, NO FINE, RESTITUTION

W/ OTHER DEFENDANTS, INMATE $ PROGRAM,

PROPERTY FORFEITURE, 3 YRS OF

SUPERVISED RELEASE FOR EACH COUNT

– HAYES OBJECTED TO SENTENCE,

JUDGE OVERRULED · MUST APPEAL IN

14 DAYS 9:59

LIZ 10 AM

– FORFEITURE         (FRONT)

– FEDS CALLED HOME AS EGBC[?] / DFW

ANTIFA HQ · LIZ LAWYER 4TH AMEND.

VIOLATION · JUDGE OKAYED FORFEITURE

– MOTION FOR ACQUITAL & MOTION FOR

NEW TRIAL BOTH DENIED · LIZ LAWYER →

29 OBJECTIONS → 30 SUSTAINED ²

21 OBJECTIONS OVERRULED

– LIZ LAWYER TRANSCRIPT NOT GIVEN TO

480 M    120 M  30-50K FINE +

COST OF IMPRISONMENT

– 6 IN PSR FOR TERRORISM CHARGE → ?

1ST ARREST FOR LIZ, 6 FOR CAREER

CRIMINALS · FAMILY EH CHARACTER

WITNESS

– SENTENCE – NO DOWNWARD VARIANCE

60M  180 M  240M 120M

(600 MONTHS) + CONCURRENT

NO FINE / FEE + RESTITUTION

– PROP FORFEITED

– LIZ LAWYER OBJECTED TO

SENTENCE · 14 DAYS TO APPEAL

10:31 DONE

10:32 MEGAN

– MOTIONS – FORFEITURE . . . CAR NOT

TAKEN (3)

– MOTIONS DENIED – NEW TRIAL &

AQUITAL DENIED

– 8 OBJECTIONS OVERRULED (SENTENCING)

– JUDGE TO USE GIVEN GUIDELINES FOR

SENTENCING

– MEGAN LAWYER → JUDGE ARGUMENT

MEGAN & FATHER ISSUES, FAMILY

ISSUES AS BE CONSIDERED

“ALL WANT TO DO IS HELP OTHERS,

DID NOT WANT WHAT HAPPENED TO

HAPPEN . . . BROKE DOWN . NO INTENT

TO HURT ANYONE”

– FEDS – FAMILY NOT EXCUSE, ~~PHONED~~

PARTICIPATED IN PLAN → FOLLOW

GUIDELINES

– 60M  180 M  240M  120M

(600 MONTHS) + CONCURRENT

– RESTITUTION TO PAY W/ OTHER

DEFENDANTS

– INMATE FINANCIAL PROGRAM

– NO OBJECTIONS FROM MEGAN LAWYER

– MARI LAWYER OBJECTS TO SENTENCE →

OVERRULED · 14 DAYS FOR NOTICE

OF APPEAL · GOT FORFEITURE ITEMS →

FORFITUE · MARI LAWYER OBJECTIONS

OVERRULED DONE AT 9:60

CHAMPAGNE

   9:11 AM

– PRELIM MOTIONS · ACQUITAL → DENIED

SET ASIDE MOTION → DENIED

– OBJECTIONS TO PSR – ALL 14 OVER-

RULED · JUDGE TO USE

14 YEARS  1 2 3 7 → 720 M

120 – LIFE MONTH    $50/500 FINE

– HAYES – CHARACTER WITNESS . . .

FAMILY FRIEND, US HISTORY & LIFTING

COACH, UNCLE

– JUDGE – ARGUMENT W/ AIR QUOTES

AROUND SUPPRESSIVE FIRE. JUDGE →

PAINTED SONG A “RINGLEADER”

– CHAMPAGNE STATEMENT

– DOESN’T HATE ANYONE

1ST → HELP   2ND → ~~X~~ HURT

– MURDER OF RENEE, DM[?] WITNESSED

+ FEAR (SONG)

– SAW BROS S[?] STOP & PRETEND

—

RR (Pittman)

Maricela Rueda

– Motion for retrial denied

– Previous counsel still listed in case. No response from counsel

– Government trying to seize the Jeep

– Counsel argues Jeep is owned previously & not used in the events.

– Government has not provided sufficient justification for seizure

– Government argues it doesn’t matter because it can seize everything & all defendant assets if convicted

– Judge denied appeal – government will seize the jeep.

– Judge overruled all objections “They’re unsupported & overruled”

– Counsel argues defendant has no prior issues w/ the law. Average sentence for Jan. 6 rioters is 26 months.

– Judge argues it’s fine because the riots weren’t charged w/ terrorism

– Counsel argues the comparison is made to severity of action, not the charges.

– Sentence:

60 mo count 1

120 count 2

180 count 3

240 count 4

240

[circled drawing of a cat/fox face]

Benjamin Song

– Judge denies all motions

– Judge denies all objections

– Defense calls witnesses

  • Donna Kim – family friend. known the family since 1993.

  • coach Jim. weight lifting

  • Paul Song. Uncle.

– Character witnesses complete

– Song allocution

– Sentencing

60     1

180    2

230    3

120    4

240    7

120    6

120    9

120    10

1200 months

Elizabeth Soto

• Defense objects to forfeiture

• Government says they can take what they want.

  • Judge agrees.

• Motion for acquittal: denied

• Motion for new trial: denied

• Defense notes the purpose for reiterating objections for 5th circuit appeals

• Defense argues defendant has no prior record

• Defense argues Soto was lowest in court defined culpability & should get a lower sentence than the others.

• Defense calls witness Corrin Soto – sister in law

• Soto does not wish to make a statement

• Sentence

– 60 count 1

– 180 count 2

– 240 count 3

– 120 count 4

600 months

Meagan Morris

• No objections to forfeiture

• State removes forfeiture for Hyundai minivan & 2017 Mercedes Benz

• Motion for new trial: denied

• Motion for acquittal: denied

• All objections overruled

• Counsel glazes the judge to get a lighter sentence.

• Judge does not give a shit

• State says idgaf about your childhood or age.

• Sentence

– 60     1

– 180    2

– 240    3

– 120    4

600 months

—

WJ (Pittman)

Pittman courtroom                    6/23/26

– Meghan Morris, Liz Soto, Maricela Rueda, Ben Song seated in jury box.

– Judge gave preliminary warning that outburst will not be tolerated. Attorneys cannot be using electronics during proceedings. No vulgarities or facial expressions.

– Ben Song 1st called

– atty asks to check on witnesses

– Maricela Rueda 2nd called

– Sophia (calling-Ca[?]/g.) Judge states Lisa Crampton[?] is atty of record, Sophia says she is no longer. Nari[?] discovered her. Sophia reached out & not heard back. pg. 376

– Judgment of acquittal – judge denies, Sophia nothing new been added to motion. Sophia (atty) is focused on sentencing.

– outstanding pet for forfeiture. Govt request preponderand of evidence supports request for forfeiture.

– govt – allows govt to seize all assets if defendant is convicted of terrorism. Seeking forfeiture of jeep she drove to prairieland. Govt will seize ALL assets of any individual planning & participates [in] terrorism

– Sophia (atty) response – govt fails to establish the jeep support terrorism, it was acquired prior to the act and was not acquired intended to promote terrorism

– maamita[?] responds none of that matter, 981.A(g) is very broad, govt exercised discretion and only want jeep she used. She drove jeep 2019 jeep to daytime protest and to 56th street house.

– judge rule in favor of forfeiture. granted.

– judge reviews Maris charges, found guilty

– 9 objections lodged in pre sentence report

– 2 obj to addendum

– all overruled

– Lee – specific findings of objective

– all overruled – unsupported

– I’ve ruled on objections, unless you have something[?] you ever handled a case in Ft. Worth?

no your honor

– ct 1, 12, 720 – guidelines

– 4 – 720 month

– 1, 2, 3 – not more than 3 years each

– Mr. Sherman if you have a convo you need to have, go outside

– Sophia “Lee – 33 yr old mom w/no criminal history, attended a noise demo that turned for worst that she was shocked by.

– guidelines calculated using terrorism enhancement result taken wide departure from any other terrorism case most notably Jan 6 riot. avg sentence was 24 months

– that not had more specific rise[?]

Judge – difference between this and Jan 6 is charged differently

judge – any mitigating differences?

atty – offenses with similar conduct, not charges this was less violent and harm to law enforcement. Violent statements did not receive enhancement, received proportionate. She read things Jan 6 ppl did. The judge

judge – so main argument is that terr. enhan. is not appropriate? anything you want to tell me specifically about this case

atty – she is a great mother, the mandatory 10 yr sentence would have her coming out after most formative years of her life. her dad died while she was incarcerated, consider the suffering she’s already endured. this one year of detention, she also lost her house, dx of ptsd, certified as a doula, she gardened, she ran mutual aid

judge – I’ve reviewed letters

atty – please weigh the 10 yr mandatory against all cases where it did not apply

judge – I spent a lot of time reviewing, I’ve had these cases awaiting sentencing, longest than any other case I’ve been a judge. Thank you.

atty – we ask you give a nominal sentence + give a statement? no

govt – unique to Rueda, she brought her daughter along to daytime protest, and she involved her husband after the fact to conceal documents

J – Sent. – Rueda def 6

    60 months 1

    180    2

    200

    120    4

    240    12

        840 months concurrently with state case

not ordering a fine for cost of incarceration. restitution w/ codefendants 84,408.95 to be paid immediately, late $50 per month

– supervised release 2 years

    numerous conditions

Object – sent. is unreasonable

    overruled.

840 months served consecutively & concurrent to state

forfeiture – defendants property is forfeited.

atty – obj – unreasonable, specific findings

&

Mari was escorted out.

Back to Mr. Song

– 2 motions. motion for acquittal & set aside judgment

– court reviewed motions and denied

ct 1    8-10

2                judge read #s for all counts

3

4

7

J – 14 objections – overruled.

– well presented and exhaustive but denied

– determined appropriate guidelines

ct 1, 2, 3, 7 – 720 m.

ct 4    120m        guideline range

ct 8-10    120m

    super 1, 3, 7 not more 3 yr

    super 8-10 not more 5 yr

Hayes (atty)

– calls character witnesses

    testify from podium

    Donna Kim

        – here in support of Song & family, met him at 4 years old. Family friend. At Ava[?] age, very attentive and smart. Worked with his father in lawfirm, very loyal. Younger bro Luke in military, other brother Jake law clerk in law school, Ethan studying at UTA.

        – hope the court considers, he can reflect and gain wisdom. he must come to realization how powerful govt really is, he was a marine. please consider he has support of community and friends

– next witness

    Jim Yakvvorsay[?]

        – known Ben since 2006 in [high] school, in US history class, went to state 235 lb bench press, great team player. respected by teammates and teachers, very intelligent young man. Very coachable[?]

next witness

– Paul Song

– uncle, known him his entire life, Ben is

compassionate and incredibly bright. So many leadership

qualities and mentor to little bros

  – At 12 yrs old applied to take SATs.

    accepted into program at Duke university

  – student athlete, very proud of him for

joining marines

  – always had a high conviction in him

Atty – consider all the ppl who wanted to come

speak well of him

  – he’s gone to dozens protests Armed, never shot

J – made confusing arguments

  – talked about suppression fire, if were in

a situation where we can shoot suppression fire,

if we think we can shoot at an officer, were

in a bad place

Atty – I did not make self defense

J – yes you did, by grace of God Song

is not dead. I dont want to hear accusation

of govt, you represent the ringleader.

Δ – he was not ringleader

J – the evidence is overwhelming, jury came

back less than a day and have. I’ve

NEVE had a verdict come back that fast.

Δ – consider how peaceful

J – he was arrested in Austin August 2020 w

Δ – alot of good ppl had good things to say

Song Statement

– I dont hate anyone, cops trump nazis

believe we shold help each other & protect

– never wanna see what happend to Renne Good[?]

J – this is Not the time to make a political

speech, time to make an alocution

Song – wanting people to live is not hate,

  standing in plainview – what I saw was

my worst nightmare – he pointed his gun

to back of unarmed protestor. I dont wanna

hurt anyone, I was shocked, surprised at what

happened. Glad were not mourning another

death w/ Renee Good, Alex Gray[?], Philando Castille[?]

J – no political statements, you obvrosly have

not accepted responsibility

Song – 22 ppl arrested – none of them did anything

this is wrong this is injustice, in 1872 Whitman[?]

J – I dont need a history lesson. Tell me

about you.

Song – they removed every black & juror, they

tortured their own witnesses, 24 yr old had

heart attack, so terrifed she would die. this

case is a warning that if you believe the

wrong thing, the govt calls me the

embodiment of Antifa. There is no group

Antifa. Govt is so so hateful. What kind of

ppl are not against hate & war and genocide

hate migrated in govt. If they call you

a domestic terrorist, they can take everything

from you. I dont fear for myself, I fear for

all of you at this time of great failures

and justices

J – anything specific about you? not you

political beliefs? other than your scared of govt

S – thats all

J –

  months  counts

  60      1

  180     2

  240     3

  120     4

  240     7

  120     8

  120     9

  120     10

  ___________

  total 1,200 months

[margin note: supervised release 3 yrs per count 1 →]

[margin note: 5 years per count 8 → 10]

  $4,408.95 restitution

J – given the fact this could’ve been a slaughter,

the fact defendant shows no remorse

*Song leaves

Liz Soto

Mr. Smith – forfeiture

– evidence siezed from residence from bookclub

which was code for ANTIFA

– govt only took what was rented to attack

[margin note: defense] Δ – obj. under 4th amendment

Smith – no access requirement

J – forfeiture granted

  motions for acquittal & new trial

  ruling – arguments are well presented, motions

  denied considering all evidence in trial. anything

  new? let continue with sentencing…

Count 1 riot, ct 2 – material support terrorist.

ct 3 intending to use explosive, ct 4 carrying

explosive

29 objections, obj to 20 sustained

              21 SS

              14 SS

        remaining 24 overruled

  Guidelines  counts

  400 m = 1, 2, 3

  120 m = 4

[margin note: defense atty] 40 yr, 0 offender, she has terrorism charge,

does not have a record

Ms. Soto is at lowest at culpability ladder,

not in signal chat, left when asked,

asked she should get a sentence not greater than

necessary. Song had specific intent to kill was

in no way forseeable to Ms. Soto.

Soto witness

– Corinne Soto (hard to hear)

  – known her since I was R, like a mother

to me. led w/ patience, kindness and

gentliness

  (Liz started crying during testimony)

  – mother of 3 who gave up career to provide

have flexibilty to be with her kids

– no more witnesses, no statement

J – sentence

  counts      months

  1           60

  2           180

  3           220

  4           120

  ___________

              600 months total

  restitution $4,408.95