Iced Earth guitarist Jon Schaffer has been sentenced for his involvement in the Capitol riot. The sentence was given on October 25 and includes three years of probation, 120 hours of community service, a $1,000 restitution payment, and a $200 fine.
In early October, the U.S. government recommended Schaffer’s sentence. They suggested supervised probation and a restitution payment of $2,000, saying this would reflect the seriousness of Schaffer’s actions. They also noted his cooperation with law enforcement and his early acceptance of responsibility.
“I profoundly regret my actions on January 6th, 2021. I haven’t been a perfect man, but for the majority of my life, I’ve been a very productive man, and have tried to live my life with integrity and a disciplined work ethic,” Schaffer stated after his sentencing. “I deeply love our country and the founding principles that have inspired people from all over the world to look at the USA as a beacon of hope for all of humanity. Having traveled the world for over 30 years and having performed in approximately 100 countries, it was always a great feeling and relief when the airplane would safely land at home on US soil.”
“When the global pandemic came upon us, and chaos ensued all around the US in 2020, I was very concerned about what seemed to be a collapse of our country and the rule of law,” he continued. “When the 2020 election took place and I saw many public officials and media outlets reporting that the election was stolen, my concern deepened. This led to my decision to go to D.C. and have my voice heard. I’m not excusing my impulsive behavior. I was wrong, and I take ownership of my actions. I own the fact that I made a huge mistake, and I wish I never would have gone there. In fact, the consequences have been devastating on my life, family, friends, business, colleagues and business partners.”
“I knew immediately that I had let my emotions get the best of me and made a terrible mistake. I drove home to Indiana the following morning on Thursday, January 7th, 2021. On the 8th I found my attorneys, and at my request they immediately reached out to the authorities. I willingly surrendered and cooperated with authorities. Initially, I was charged with multiple serious federal felony offenses and feared I may spend the rest of my life in prison. I spent several months in custody following my self-surrender. I was placed in solitary confinement with horrendous conditions, which was an extremely traumatic experience. I became the first person of the hundreds of co-defendants to enter a guilty plea, and have now been sentenced to probation,” Schaffer added.
He mentioned that the situation has been tough for him and that he has tried to be a better person. He also apologized to his fans.
On January 6, 2021, Schaffer was among the first people to enter the Capitol building. He was wearing a tactical vest and an ‘Oath Keepers Lifetime Member’ hat, and he was carrying bear spray. Although he knew some details about the Oath Keepers’ plans for the event, the government stated he did not help plan or coordinate the attack. Schaffer was inside the Capitol for less than 10 minutes and did not hurt any officers or damage any property.
After Schaffer’s actions that day, the other members of Iced Earth left the band, making him the only current member.
