Top Proud Boys member who stormed the Capitol released from custody ahead of trial: report

A top Proud Boys leader was ordered to be released under certain conditions by a federal magistrate judge in Seattle this Monday, rejecting prosecutors' request to hold him in custody until his trial for partaking in the riot at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, POLITICO reports.

Ethan Nordean was charged with destruction of government property along with other charges for trespassing on Capitol grounds. Prosecutors argued that Nordean is a flight risk and danger to the community. But Magistrate Judge Brian Tsuchida ruled the suspect could be released as long as his travel is limited to within the Seattle area and abides by a curfew. He also is required to follow local COVID mandates.

Prosecutors say they plan to appeal the ruling and seek a stay of Tsuchida's order. According to POLITICO, Tsuchida agreed to stay the effect of his decision once prosecutors file their appeal.

According to a statement from the Department of Justice, Nordean claims to be the "Sergeant of Arms" of the Seattle Chapter of the Proud Boys.

"It is alleged that Nordean was observed marching at the front of a group of known Proud Boys shortly before the riot began. It is further alleged that Nordean was among those who entered the U.S. Capitol building after rioters, including certain persons associated with the Proud Boys, forced entry into the Capitol by means of destruction of Federal property. It is also alleged that Nordean was near the front of the crowd of rioters, who collectively approached, confronted, and vastly outnumbered Capitol Police," the statement added.

"Prior to Jan. 6, 2021, Nordean posted on social media certain indications of an intent to organize a group that intended to engage in conflict. For example, around Dec. 27, 2020, Nordean posted a message asking for donations of 'protective gear' and 'communications equipment.' On Jan. 4, 2021, Nordean posted a video on social media, which he captioned, 'Let them remember the day they decided to make war with us.'"

Read the full report over at POLITICO.