Following extensive discussions uncommon for Capitol breach cases, Rebecca Lavrenz, widely recognized as the “J6 Praying Grandma” on social media, was found guilty on all four federal misdemeanor charges linked to her involvement in the January 6, 2021, demonstration against the 2020 presidential election outcome in Washington, D.C.
The trial, which started on March 25 in the federal district court of the District of Columbia, concluded after nearly 26 hours of jury deliberation. The 12-member jury convicted the 71-year-old great-grandmother and bed-and-breakfast owner, residing approximately 14 miles northeast of Colorado Springs, of unauthorized entry and presence in a restricted building, disorderly and disruptive conduct on restricted premises, disorderly behavior within a Capitol building, and engaging in demonstrations or picketing within a Capitol building.
Lavrenz faces the possibility of up to a year in prison and could be fined over $200,000, not including legal expenses, with her sentencing scheduled for August 12.
‘Praying grandma’ Rebecca Lavrenz has reportedly been found guilty.
Expressing her shock at the verdict, Lavrenz told The Gazette, “I was surprised. I believe God intended for this to unfold in such a way to amplify my voice. It’s time for our country to awaken.”
Driven by divine inspiration, Lavrenz traveled cross-country to attend the “Stop the Steal” rally, aiming to pray for the nation. “I didn’t embark on this journey for personal reasons. My presence at the Capitol was to stand up for my country, driven by God’s guidance to advocate for my First Amendment rights,” she stated. During her 10-minute stay inside the Capitol with other attendees, she felt divinely presence.
In her defense, attorneys from John Pierce Law introduced seven witnesses, against the four brought forward by the prosecution team from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, which argued Lavrenz’s unauthorized entry into the Capitol. Lavrenz herself testified for five hours, with jury deliberations spanning several days and involving multiple clarifications sought from her. The verdict was eventually delivered late on Thursday afternoon.
Reflecting on the length of the jury deliberation, Lavrenz highlighted the rarity of such extensive discussions in Jan. 6 cases, interpreting it as a sign of at least one juror advocating for her. Despite the number of convictions often occurring swiftly in similar cases, Lavrenz noted her case’s exceptional deliberation period.
To date, numerous individuals have been arrested in connection with the Jan. 6 events, yet no acquittals have been recorded in jury trials, highlighting a significant trend in the judicial process concerning these charges. This trend seems to underscore a reluctance within the judicial system to shed light on the charges, potentially limiting the opportunities for others to contest their own accusations effectively.
The cases stemming from the Jan. 6 events have sparked debate over the 2020 election’s integrity, despite the lack of substantial evidence supporting significant tampering that could have influenced the outcome. Legal challenges led by former President Donald Trump and his allies resulted in only a single victory across 64 lawsuits, with the majority dismissed or ruled against after hearings.
Amidst support and criticism on social media, Lavrenz plans to use her platform to inspire change, considering launching a podcast and possibly writing a book or pursuing law school. Her conviction solidifies her resolve, stating, “I intend to amplify my voice to such an extent that imprisonment cannot silence me.”
To support Rebecca Lavrenz, contributions can be made through her fundraising campaign on GiveSendGo, a platform that allows individuals to raise funds for various causes. Donations to assist with her legal expenses and fines can be made by visiting https://www.givesendgo.com/rebeccalavrenz. This campaign offers a way for supporters to financially assist Lavrenz during this challenging time, helping to cover the substantial fines and legal costs she faces following her conviction.
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The judge who is on these trails is a corrupt, evil man who should be put in jail! Biden and this gang of evil scum who ran this committee needs arrested. They have lied, edited video and are just plain unamerican unmoral subcreatures. Biden and his justice Department need shut down and cleanse. The capital police let the people in so they should be charged to! Douche bags. They give good police a bad name.