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Damien Johnston

WASHINGTON, D.C. (NewsDakota.com) – A former North Dakota Young Republican member and political candidate charged in US federal court for his alleged role in the January 6th, 2021 incident at the U.S. Capitol Building accepted a plea agreement on October 17th and is scheduled to be sentenced on February 20th of 2025.

Damien Johnston, 21, was charged in federal court in the District of Columbia September 24, 2024.

In September 2023, an anonymous person contacted the FBI after they saw a video posted by Johnston’s mother. In the video, Johnston was seen at the Capitol on January 6, 2021. An FBI Special Agent interviewed the person, who said they personally knew the family.

The FBI used Johnston’s North Dakota driver’s license picture to identify him in security footage taken inside the Capitol on January 6, 2021.

According to unsealed documents filed in federal court, Johnston attended the “Stop the Steal” rally in Washington, D.C. on January 6. According to an FBI Special Agent assigned to the case, Johnston illegally entered the Capitol at 3:08 p.m. through the Senate Wing Door. Once inside the Capitol, Johnston was seen on security camera footage walking around the building, before being confronted by a Capitol police officer. Johnston left the building shortly after, at 3:17 p.m.

Johnston was charged with four misdemeanors for his actions: Entering and Remaining in a Restricted Building, Disorderly and Disruptive Conduct in a Restricted Building, Disorderly Conduct in a Capitol Building, and Parading, Demonstrating, or Picketing in a Capitol Building. He faces up to 1.5 years in prison and up to $200,000 in fines if convicted.

Johnston was 18 when the alleged crimes were committed on January 6, 2021.

His father Daniel Johnston issued this statement concerning the arrest of his son Damian Johnston.

“While in Washington D.C., our son got swept up in a crowd while following the direction of capital police without contributing to any destruction of property. Many who walked through the capital building including my son did so not realizing that they were breaking the law. I love my son. I love my country and the state of North Dakota. I respect the rule of law and justice system. I have faith that a fair and just process will weigh the facts and there will be a speedy resolution.”

He added, “In the meantime, I am steadfast and committed to representing District 24 as we engage with the community and campaign through November 5th.”

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