A 21-year-old Edmonds man will serve more than three years in federal prison and three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to torching two police cars using Molotov cocktails during Seattle protests against racism and police violence last year.
Kelly Jackson was identified in video and by witnesses as the person who threw the incendiary devices on May 30, when thousands gathered downtown, most to peacefully protest the killing of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police on May 25, The Seattle Times reported.
Some in the crowd threw items at police, who reacted with pepper spray and tear gas. Five police cars were burned and businesses were looted and vandalized. Thomas was identified in surveillance video because of unique clothing and other identifying marks and arrested several days later, police said.
In handing down a 40-month prison sentence, U.S. District Judge James Robart said Thomas’ actions disrupted and interfered with legal, peaceful protests.
In a memorandum seeking a shorter prison term, Jackson’s attorney, Robert Goldsmith, noted that Jackson suffers from bipolar disorder and has substance abuse issues, but has never been in trouble previously. The memo said Jackson still lives with his parents and has maintained a job to help pay for his court expenses.