Proud Boys member pleads guilty to seditious conspiracy

By Hannah Rabinowitz | CNN

Jeremy Bertino, a top lieutenant to Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio, pleaded guilty to seditious conspiracy in federal court on Thursday and is cooperating with the Justice Department’s investigation into the far-right group.

Bertino, 43, will also plead guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. He is the first member of the Proud Boys to plead guilty to a seditious conspiracy – a major boost in the historic prosecution of the far-right organization.

According to his settlement, which was read in court, he could face more than five years in prison, although prosecutors could ask a judge for a reduced sentence depending on his level of cooperation in the investigation.

Bertino was listed as “PERSON-1” in previous indictments but has not been publicly charged. He is reported not to have been in Washington, DC as of January 6, 2021. Prosecutors have previously outlined his involvement in running the Proud Boys and extensive planning meetings and talks.

Despite not being present at the Capitol riots, Bertino was able to make crucial statements to prosecutors in the Proud Boys’ seditious conspiracy trial, set to begin in December this year.

He also testified before the House Inquiry Committee on January 6, and a clip of his testimony was played at one of the committee’s public hearings.

According to his declaration of consent, Bertino could also be entitled to witness protection.

Tarrio has pleaded not guilty to seditious conspiracy charges.