Iowa Man Mistakenly Released From Prison

Leo Christopher Kelly, an Iowa man, was mistakenly released from prison after serving only 11 months of his 30-month sentence for his role in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. The Bureau of Prisons attributed his release to a 'misinterpretation of a court order' following an appeals court decision that vacated one of his convictions. Prosecutors argue that this release was premature and have requested a hearing with U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth to address the issue and reschedule his sentencing. Although Kelly remains free and has complied with probation requirements, the legal complexities surrounding his case are ongoing, particularly after a recent Supreme Court ruling limited the use of obstruction charges. Kelly had been convicted on multiple counts, including obstructing an official proceeding, but only misdemeanor convictions remain after the appeal. His participation in the riot included entering the Senate chamber and documenting activities on the Senate floor.