Brandon Fellows, a 26-year-old from Schenectady, New York, gained notoriety for his actions during the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots. This incident, which saw the storming of the U.S. Capitol, has put Fellows in the spotlight for various reasons. This article delves into who Brandon Fellows is, his involvement in the Capitol riots, his legal battles, and the unexpected impact on his personal life.
The Capitol Riots and Brandon Fellows
On January 6, 2021, Brandon Fellows was among the numerous individuals who stormed the U.S. Capitol. Fellows was notably caught on camera smoking marijuana in the office of Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), with his muddy boots propped on a table. This act, along with his overall behavior during the riots, made him a recognizable figure.
Fellows, in an interview with Bloomberg News, acknowledged the incriminating nature of his actions but expressed no regrets. He even stated his intention to return to Washington, D.C., to protest Joe Biden’s inauguration. Despite fearing potential prison time, Fellows noted that his newfound infamy had significantly boosted his profile on the dating app Bumble.
A Troubled Personal Life
Brandon Fellows’ political actions have strained his familial relationships. His family, disapproving of his behavior and his disregard for COVID-19 precautions, limited their interactions with him. Only his grandparents invited him to Christmas dinner, and even then, they made him eat in his bus, a converted school bus where he resides.
Before the Capitol siege, Fellows had referred to the protest as “the last stand” and shared a video captioned, “We are coming for you traitors.” He admitted to scaling a wall to enter the Capitol, motivated by a sense of witnessing history. Despite his claims of non-violence, Fellows has posted videos asserting he did nothing wrong, describing his actions as a “polite tour” and mentioning friendly interactions with police officers.
Legal Consequences and Courtroom Drama
Brandon Fellows is facing serious legal repercussions for his actions on January 6. He stands accused of a federal felony charge of obstruction of an official proceeding and aiding and abetting, along with multiple misdemeanors. Fellows, who is representing himself in court, has maintained that he believed he was fighting against a corrupt government and that he did not partake in violence, although he supported it.
During his trial, Fellows made several controversial statements, such as calling the court a “kangaroo court” and expressing pleasure at the fear experienced by senators and congress members during the attack. U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden, appointed by Donald Trump, has criticized the government’s approach to some January 6 cases and often handed down sentences less severe than those requested by prosecutors. Fellows’ trial concluded with the judge holding him in criminal contempt of court and sentencing him to five months in prison.
Unexpected Fame on Bumble
One of the more surprising aspects of Brandon Fellows’ story is the unexpected boost to his love life. Following the Capitol riots, his profile on the dating app Bumble saw a significant increase in activity. Fellows described his profile as “blowing up” post-siege, highlighting the bizarre twists in his life following his actions on January 6.
Brandon Fellows’ Transformation and Weight Loss Journey
In addition to his political notoriety, Brandon Fellows has undergone a significant personal transformation. Previously weighing over 16 stone, Fellows now weighs a trim 12 stone, crediting his weight loss to a complete overhaul of his lifestyle. Inspired by a close friend, Fellows joined F45, a high-intensity interval training program, and adopted healthier eating habits.
Fellows shared his journey on social media, expressing how losing weight has not only improved his physical appearance but also his mental well-being. His transformation has garnered positive feedback from fans, who praised his dedication and the visible changes in his before-and-after photos.
Conclusion
Brandon Fellows is a complex figure whose actions during the January 6 Capitol riots have brought him both infamy and unexpected fame. His journey from a grocery store worker living in a converted school bus to a prominent participant in a historic event highlights the unpredictability of life and the profound impact of personal choices.
As Fellows continues to navigate the legal and personal ramifications of his actions, his story serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of political extremism and the power of personal transformation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Brandon Fellows?
Brandon Fellows is a 26-year-old from Schenectady, New York, known for his involvement in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots. He gained notoriety for smoking marijuana in a senator’s office during the siege and has since faced legal consequences.
What were Brandon Fellows’ actions during the Capitol riots?
Fellows was seen smoking marijuana in Senator Jeff Merkley’s office and participated in the storming of the Capitol. He admitted to scaling a wall to enter the building and claimed he was witnessing history.
What legal charges does Brandon Fellows face?
Fellows faces a federal felony charge of obstruction of an official proceeding and aiding and abetting, along with multiple misdemeanors related to his actions on January 6.
How has Brandon Fellows’ personal life been affected by the Capitol riots?
Fellows’ political actions have strained his relationships with family members, leaving him isolated. However, his notoriety has also led to a surge in activity on his Bumble dating profile.
What is Brandon Fellows’ weight loss journey?
Brandon Fellows underwent a significant weight loss journey, losing over four stone by joining F45 training and adopting healthier eating habits. This transformation has positively impacted both his physical appearance and mental well-being.
