Maryann Mooney-Rondon and her son, Rafael Rondon, involved in the January 6, 2021 U.S. Capitol riot, have been sentenced to house arrest for their part in stealing House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s laptop. Maryann received a one-year sentence, while Rafael will serve 18 months. Both are also subject to five years of probation.
The duo was part of the crowd incited by former President Donald Trump, who falsely claimed a landslide election victory and urged supporters to “fight like hell.” This led to the violent breach of the Capitol, where the Rondons participated in the chaos.
Rafael admitted to assisting a man attempting to damage Pelosi’s laptop and expressed regret for his actions, stating, “I made a stupid mistake. I realize that.” His mother, a medical billing company owner, confessed to aiding a man who took the laptop, providing gloves to avoid fingerprints. She described her actions as “a very bad lapse of judgment” and sought mercy from the court, acknowledging her responsibility as an adult in the situation.
U.S. District Judge Jia Cobb, who presided over the case, described it as “difficult,” noting the defendants’ lack of criminal sophistication but criticizing their “juvenile” behavior. She stated, “I just think that they were acting very stupidly. No offense.” Despite the government’s recommendation for prison sentences, Cobb opted for house arrest, considering it a “significant break.”
The Rondons were identified in videos wearing stolen emergency escape hoods, leading to their eventual FBI identification. Reflecting on the incident, Maryann Mooney-Rondon expressed regret, wishing they had stayed home instead.
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