Charges have been filed against the Missouri couple who became internet sensations after coming out of their home and confronting protesters with guns drawn.
They are charged with unlawful use of a weapon/flourishing.
Mark and Patricia McCloskey now face the charges, but just yesterday, the Governor of Missouri hinted that if charges were brought against the couple that he would pardon them.
1/ Statement from Circuit Attorney Kimberly M. Gardner – Today my office filed charges against Mark and Patricia McCloskey following an incident involving peaceful, unarmed protesters on June 28th. Full statement below: pic.twitter.com/zPucQ3MHs5
— Circuit Attorney (@stlcao) July 20, 2020
St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner filed the charges of unlawful use of a weapon/flourishing according to Channel 5 in St. Louis.
Channel 5 reports that the “unlawful use of a weapon charge is a class D felony and could result in one to four years in prison as well as fines up to $5,000” and that “Gardner’s office will be issuing a summons for the couple to appear in court.”
via thepostmillenial.com
Previously, a search warrant was executed at the property and police were seen removing the rifle that was used during the incident.
The couple’s attorney, Joel Schwartz, issued a statement after the announcement was made:
“The charges filed today against my clients, Mark and Patricia McCloskey, are disheartening as I unequivocally believe no crime was committed.
“I, along with my clients, support the First Amendment right of every citizen to have their voice and opinion heard. This right, however, must be balanced with the Second Amendment and Missouri law, which entitle each of us to protect our home and family from potential threats.
“With that being said, given the heightened attention focused on this matter due to the current political environment, I don’t believe it is prudent to comment any further, at this time, or to try this case in the media.
“I look forward to reviewing the evidence and defending the McCloskeys against these allegations.”
