Supreme Court questions federal use of obstruction statute in Capitol riot cases
The Supreme Court has expressed skepticism towards the federal government’s application of a felony charge stemming from the 2001 Enron scandal to prosecute about 350 Capitol rioters from Jan. 6, 2021.
During arguments, the court’s conservative justices seemed unsure about narrowing the interpretation of the law that prohibits obstructing congressional proceedings.
The court’s ruling, which is expected by June, may impact the Justice Department’s cases.
That includes former President Donald Trump’s.
Experts say it remains uncertain if there is a consensus on altering the statute’s interpretation.
Analysts say the debate among the judges highlights concerns about the fairness of prosecution and the unique nature of the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol.