Michigan court overturns man's conviction in plot to kidnap Gov. Whitmer
Summary
A Michigan appeals court overturned Joseph Morrison’s conviction related to the 2020 kidnapping plot against Governor Gretchen Whitmer. The court ruled that kidnapping is not a violent felony that supports a terrorism charge under state law. Prosecutors have said they will appeal the decision.Key Facts
- Joseph Morrison was originally convicted in 2022 for supporting a terroristic act as part of the Wolverine Watchmen group.
- The 2020 plot aimed to kidnap Governor Gretchen Whitmer, but she was never physically harmed.
- Morrison, Pete Musico, and Paul Bellar were accused of conducting gun training with key plot members.
- Adam Fox and Barry Croft Jr., leaders of the group, were sentenced to 16 years in prison.
- The Michigan Court of Appeals reversed Morrison’s conviction in a 3-0 decision, saying kidnapping is not a violent felony under the state terrorism law.
- Michigan Attorney Dana Nessel described the ruling as flawed and plans to appeal.
- Undercover FBI agents were involved in the investigation that led to 14 arrests in 2020.
- Of the 14 men charged, nine were convicted and five were acquitted or had charges dropped.
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