Marine Accused of Flashing a Nazi Salute During the Capitol Riot Gets Almost 5 Years in Prison

Sentencing and Charges

Tyler Bradley Dykes, a former Marine from South Carolina, was sentenced to nearly five years in prison for his involvement in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. Dykes, 26, received a sentence of four years and nine months from U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell after pleading guilty to assault charges in April.

Riot Participation and Assault

During the Capitol riot, Dykes grabbed a police riot shield from two officers and used it to push through police lines. He later entered the Capitol, using the shield to assault police officers inside the building, forcing them to retreat. Dykes celebrated his actions with what appeared to be a Sieg Heil salute, captured on video, although he denied performing a Nazi salute.

Previous Convictions

Dykes had a prior conviction related to the 2017 white nationalist Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, where he was seen performing a Nazi salute and carrying a lit torch. He served a six-month sentence in state prison for this offense before being transferred to federal custody in 2023.

Federal Prosecution and Defense Arguments

Federal prosecutors recommended a sentence of five years and three months, citing Dykes’ significant role in the violence on the Capitol’s east front. Dykes’ attorneys requested a two-year sentence, stating that Dykes regrets his actions and takes full responsibility.

Military Service and Discharge

Dykes briefly attended Cornell University before joining the Marine Corps in 2017. He was discharged in May 2023 under “other than honorable” conditions due to his criminal activities on January 6.

Capitol Riot Charges and Sentences

Dykes is among more than 1,400 individuals charged with federal crimes related to the Capitol riot. Over 900 have been sentenced, with approximately two-thirds receiving prison terms ranging from a few days to 22 years.