Former 'Bob's Burgers' Voice Artist Wants Leniency For Jan. 6 Actions

Jay Johnston is set to be sentenced Monday but claimed his celebrity status is being used by the government "to make a point to the public."

A former voice artist on the Fox animated series “Bob’s Burgers” is seeking leniency for his activities in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, in part because “he is an acclaimed Hollywood actor” whose status is being used by the government “to make a point to the public.”

Jay Johnston played Jimmy Pesto on the long-running show until his Jan. 6, 2021, participation became public. He also played Officer Taylor on “Arrested Development.”

He is scheduled to be sentenced Monday on four counts, including felony obstruction of officers, in connection with the Jan. 6 insurrection. In the years since the riot, hundreds of people have been convicted for their roles in the chaotic and deadly day.

According to his sentencing memo, Johnston is arguing that “the government has persistently overstated Mr. Johnston’s participation at the Capitol that day” because of his celebrity status. In addition, Johnston said the feds are pursuing his indictment on a “guilty-by-association” basis “rather than maintaining focus on Mr. Johnston’s individualized actions.”

Johnston’s memo also claims his conduct after Jan. 6 “reflect genuine remorse and an acceptance of responsibility,” and notes he contacted the government via counsel to volunteer his identity as a person depicted at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. He also voluntarily “produced all media evidence in his possession depicting the events of January 6,” but “in spite of his cooperation and representation by counsel, the government chose to execute a search warrant on his home.”