A fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, who was accused of participating in the attack on the Capitol on January 6, 2021, has pleaded guilty to charges associated with the insurrection.
In 2017, Daniel Donnelly, Jr., who now goes by the name Rally Runner, pleaded guilty to a felony offense of civil disorder in the District of Columbia, as stated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
According to The Associated Press, Runner, a 43-year-old man from Missouri, made his way to the Capitol wearing a red “Keep America Great” hat, a red jacket, and red face paint. Runner is famous in his hometown of St. Louis for his spirited performances during Cardinals games, where he can be seen running around the stadium in a red outfit and red face paint.
During the riot, Runner actively took part by grabbing a stolen police riot shield and confronting law enforcement. He utilized the shield to push the crowd of rioters deeper into the Capitol, as stated by prosecutors.
In a video posted on Facebook later that day, Runner took the opportunity to address his actions at the Capitol. Throughout the video, he maintained his red outfit and face paint.
According to the release, the individual expressed their intention to use a riot shield without any intention of inciting violence. They stated, “I’m not trying to cause any violence, but I’m trying to be the furthest person to get through all the way, or at least get the furthest.”
Runner’s post mentioned that he occupied a significant amount of space and was equipped with a rioter shield. He was positioned right at the forefront, and interestingly, others who were also on the front lines seemed to emulate his actions. It appeared as if they were influenced by his lead.
On August 2, 2023, authorities apprehended him in St. Louis. His sentencing is scheduled for July 30, to be conducted by U.S. District Judge Jia M. Cobb.
Over 1,358 individuals have faced charges in connection with the Capitol riot.
