MARION COUNTY, Fla. — A Marion County couple accused of helping to mastermind the deadly insurrection at the U.S. Capitol will be held in custody without bond, a federal judge ruled Monday.
The federal government believes Kelly and Connie Meggs committed an act of terrorism.
Investigators said the couple are part of a paramilitary group called the “Oath Keepers,” and are now facing some of the most serious charges related to the Capitol riot so far.
Prosecutors said the crimes they committed along with a few other people are among some of the most severe crimes in recent U.S. history.
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The couple was indicted last week on four charges, including conspiracy to obstruct congress, obstructing Congress and destruction of federal property.
Prosecutors said the Meggs were among a small group that made it into the Capitol rotunda in a military formation called “stacking” with their hands on each other’s shoulders.
On Monday, a judge described their alleged actions as an attack on our entire democracy and determined they are both a danger to society.
Defense attorneys portrayed the Meggs as a couple with no history of violence and strong ties to the community who were hoping, without luck, to be released on bond.
The judge said this case isn’t just about people breaking the law; it’s about people challenging the very existence of the law.
