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Defense For Montana Man Charged In Capitol Breach Says Trump “Duped” Him

A wide angle image shows men in red hats kicking open a door while others, some in tactical gear, one carrying a red flag, look on. Some are holding phones, apparently filming. Joshua and Jerod Hughes are labeled.
U.S. Department of Justice
A surveillance image included in a criminal complaint against Joshua and Jerod Hughes shows Jerod and another man inside the U.S. Capitol kicking a door open on Jan. 6, 2021.

One of two Montana brothers arrested for participating in the January storming of the U.S. Capitol says former Pres. Donald Trump misled him.

Thirty-six-year-old Jerod Hughes of East Helena pleaded not guilty this week to nine counts and asked to be released pending trial so he can care for his wife post-surgery and provide for his family, according to court filings.

Hughes’ filing says he was responding to entreaties by former Pres. Donald Trump, who maintained the election had been stolen and encouraged “loyal citizens” to prevent the election certification. Hughes’ lawyer argues, the “defendant acted out of conscience, albeit one that was manipulated by deception.”

The filing also says that Hughes has “learned not [to] be so gullible and will not be so easily duped again.”

Charging documents include video evidence that allegedly shows Jerod and Joshua Hughes were among the first ten people to break into the Capitol the day Congress gathered to certify the Electoral College results. They face charges including obstruction of an official proceeding and destruction of government property.

Hughes’ attorney declined to comment.

The United States filed in opposition to the request, arguing Hughes’ alleged crimes include terrorism and violence, and that a chief judge already dismissed the defense that former President Trump’s words caused rioters to break into the Capitol.

Kayla writes about energy policy, the oil and gas industry and new electricity developments.