Additional Coverage:
Authorities are currently searching for Antony Vo, a convicted participant in the U.S. Capitol riot, who did not report to begin his nine-month prison term earlier this summer and has been missing for several weeks. According to CBS News, multiple sources indicate there is ongoing effort to locate Vo, from Indiana, who was due at a federal correctional facility in Terre Haute, Indiana, by early summer.
There is speculation among law enforcement that Vo may be in Canada. Vo had previously caught the attention of the judicial system before his sentencing, having violated pretrial release conditions, denounced the court as a “kangaroo court,” and posted several controversial statements and conspiracy theories regarding the events of Jan. 6, 2021, on his social media.
In September 2023, Vo was found guilty of four charges, including disorderly conduct. Prosecutors noted that Vo was actively involved in the Capitol riot for about 27 minutes, during which he took photos and shouted “Freedom!” while navigating through the building.
Prosecutors highlighted Vo’s defiant behavior during a court hearing in April, pointing out his disregard for the judicial process, including attending a protest outside a D.C. jail in support of the rioters, which led to a curfew imposition. Vo’s disrespectful demeanor continued throughout his trial and after, challenging his guilt and openly criticizing the judicial proceedings online.
Judge Tanya Chutkan, during Vo’s sentencing in April, pointed out his nonchalant attitude during the trial, especially as a law enforcement officer testified about the severe impact of the riot. Following his sentencing, Vo expressed his discontent on social media, claiming he was unjustly treated by the judicial system.
Vo was initially allowed to remain free between his sentencing and the scheduled start of his prison term. His lawyer and the Justice Department declined to comment on his case. Vo’s mother, who is also accused in the Capitol breach, is expected to appear in court next month.
The article also mentions other Jan. 6 related fugitives, including three individuals from Lakeland, Florida, who were captured earlier this year after being on the run for months, and Christopher Worrell, a supposed member of the Proud Boys, who was arrested after attempting to discreetly return home following a missed sentencing hearing.