Local ‘Proud Boy’ charged in Capitol riots

SEATTLE — A self-proclaimed leader of the Proud Boys in Seattle faces multiple federal charges for what prosecutors say was his role in the Jan. 6 riots at the U.S. Capitol.

Investigators say 30-year-old Ethan Nordean from Auburn was on social media, helping plan and organize the breach of the Capitol.

For example, around Dec. 27, 2020, authorities say Nordean posted a message asking for donations of “protective gear” and “communications equipment.” On Jan. 4, 2021, Nordean posted a video captioned, “Let them remember the day they decided to make war with us,” charges say.

Nordean, who authorities say used the alias Rufio Panman, is also accused of being at the front of the mob that outnumbered Capitol police officers and eventually made their way into the Capitol building.

Charging documents cite several social media photos and videos as evidence.

Nordean, who is the self-described “Sergeant of Arms” of the Seattle Proud Boys chapter, faces more than 30 years in prison if convicted on all counts.

He’s expected in court Monday.

The Proud Boys have been condemned as a hate group by extremist watchdogs and racial justice advocates.

On Tuesday, Canada labeled the group as a terrorist organization. Currently, the U.S. is conducting a domestic violence extremism review.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is ordering military leaders to talk to troops about extremism.

The move comes after a number of former and current service members took part in last month’s Capitol riot.

Cox Media Group