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Three members of a Jackson County militia were convicted for plotting to kidnap Governor Gretchen Whitmer

A training exercise involving the men accused of plotting to kidnap Governor Gretchen Whitmer
Courtesy U.S. Attorney's Office For The Western District Of Michigan
A training exercise involving the men accused of plotting to kidnap Governor Gretchen Whitmer

Jurors found three men guilty on all charges that they helped in the plot to kidnap Governor Gretchen Whitmer in 2020.

It was the first trial for state prosecutors in the case. Fourteen men were initially charged in both federal and state courts.

Two of the three men charged in Jackson County were in isolation for COVID-19 and not in court when the verdict was read.

Attorney Andrew Kirkpatrick tried to get Judge Thomas Wilson to let his client remain home until sentencing.

“They’re remanded to the custody of the sheriff, pending sentencing. Your honor would the court entertain any argument whatsoever? He’s on a tether, he’s had no violations. I understand that, but given that we’ve got a felony firearm right off the bat. I understand.” said Kirkpatrick.

Sentencing is scheduled for December 15th. Each of the men face up to 42 years in prison.

Dustin Dwyer reports enterprise and long-form stories from Michigan Public's West Michigan bureau.