Appeals Panel Throws Out Whitmer Plot Conviction

Michigan judge overturns conviction in Whitmer kidnapping plot, ruling offense was not a violent felony under state law.

The 2020 Scheme to Kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer

On October 8, 2020, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) announced the arrest of 13 individuals accused of participating in a plot to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Authorities alleged that the group planned to use violence in an effort to undermine and challenge the state government.

Authorities alleged that the conspirators were motivated by anti-government extremism, opposition to Gov. Whitmer's COVID-19 restrictions, and an intent to trigger a broader civil conflict in the United States.

Read More: Man Accused of Threatening Michigan Capitol and Whitmer

FBI investigations and federal court filings indicated that the conspirators, who were linked to the Wolverine Watchmen militia, held several specific grievances and pursued a number of stated objectives.

Michigan Judge Overturns Conviction In Whitmer Kidnapping Plot

The Michigan Department of Attorney General reported that the Michigan Court of Appeals unanimously reversed the 2022 conviction of Joseph Morrison, who had been found guilty of providing material support for terrorist acts, gang membership, and felony firearm charges stemming from his involvement in the plot to kidnap Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Responding to the decision, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel called the ruling "completely and irredeemably nonsensical, outrageous, and irresponsible," arguing that declaring kidnapping not to be a violent felony "strains all legal credibility and insults the intelligence of every person in this state."

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Nessel said she plans to appeal the decision.

👇BELOW: Governor's Residence, Mackinac Island👇