“Convicted: Members of White Nationalist Group Guilty in Conspiracy to Riot at Pride Event”

In a recent development, five members of the white nationalist hate group Patriot Front have been convicted of misdemeanor charges of conspiracy to riot at a Pride event. Forrest Rankin, Devin Center, Derek Smith, James Michael Johnson, and Robert Whitted were found guilty by a Kootenai County jury after a brief deliberation.

The incident took place on June 11, 2022, when 31 members of the Patriot Front, including its founder, were arrested in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Police responded to a report of people loading into a U-Haul van at a hotel parking lot, which aroused suspicion. Upon pulling over the van near the location of the North Idaho Pride Alliance’s Pride in the Park event, the police discovered riot gear, a smoke grenade, shin guards, and shields inside the vehicle.

According to documents found with the group, their plan was to form a column outside City Park and proceed inward while establishing a confrontational dynamic. Once this was achieved, the column would disengage and head down Sherman Avenue. The group members arrested hailed from various states, including Idaho, Washington, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and others.

In Idaho, rioting is considered a misdemeanor, while conspiracy to riot carries a potential punishment of up to one year in jail, a $5,000 fine, and up to two years of probation. The five convicted individuals are scheduled to be sentenced on Friday.

This conviction serves as a reminder that hate groups and their actions are not tolerated in our society. It highlights the importance of upholding the principles of inclusivity, diversity, and acceptance. The successful prosecution of these individuals sends a strong message that acts of violence and hatred will face legal consequences. It is crucial for communities to continue working towards creating a safe and inclusive environment for all individuals, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation..