In a momentous legal development, John Strand was released from federal prison on July 24.
The U.S. Supreme Court overturned the felony charge against Strand stemming from the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol unrest, resulting in his release after one year in prison, as The Blaze reports.
Strand served one year in federal prison for crimes related to the Capitol unrest, including one felony and four misdemeanors. The Supreme Court's ruling on June 28 in Fischer v. United States, led to the overturning of his felony charge. His prison time was divided between facilities in Miami, Florida, and Oakdale, Louisiana. While in Miami, he experienced severe isolation, spending four months in solitary confinement.
Strand described his time in solitary confinement as torturous, likening it to waterboarding. He spent four months in isolation, where he reported abuse and a lack of communication with his attorney, mail, or family.
In early 2024, Strand was transferred to Oakdale, Louisiana, where conditions were somewhat less oppressive but still challenging. He credits his faith for maintaining his strength during this difficult period. "I prayed a lot," said Strand, emphasizing that his faith in God was his source of strength throughout his imprisonment.
Strand's release was ordered by U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper on July 24, following the Supreme Court decision. The ruling came after Strand applied for release twice in 2024. Strand expressed gratitude upon hearing about the ruling, noting it brought him a sense of calm and strength. "I knew that decision was coming imminently," he said, describing his reaction as one of exultation and gratitude.
Despite the harsh conditions, Strand has focused on writing a book titled Patriot Plea, detailing his experiences and his involvement in the events of Jan. 6, 2021.
Strand said his isolation punishment was exacerbated by public comments from U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. He believes such statements influenced the severity of his treatment while in prison.
Strand claimed his involvement in the events of Jan. 6, 2021, was as a bodyguard for Dr. Simone Gold, who was there to speak on medical freedom and COVID-19. Both Strand and Gold were raided by the FBI in a dramatic incident. Strand's trial in September 2022 faced difficulties with the jury's political leanings, which he feels impacted the fairness of his trial.
Following his release, Strand has participated in interviews and plans to share his story through various media channels and his upcoming book. His appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit is still pending. "I have not regretted it for a single second since it started," said Strand, reflecting on his journey and the decisions he made.
Gold also commented on their ordeal, emphasizing the unexpected and over-the-top nature of the FBI raid. She emphasized the difficulty of navigating the legal and prison systems for both of them.
Strand's account of his time in prison paints a grim picture of the conditions he endured. He hopes to shed light on these experiences through his upcoming book and media appearances.
The Supreme Court’s decision brought an end to Strand's year-long imprisonment, but his legal battles continue. As Strand shares his story, he remains steadfast in his belief that his actions were guided by his faith and commitment to doing what he believes is right.
