Ex-Teacher, Army Ranger From PA Jailed In Capitol Riots: Reports

PENNSYLVANIA — A former Pennsylvania teacher and U.S. Army Ranger who authorities said was involved in the Jan. 6 Capitol Riots had his request to be released from jail rejected by a judge this week.

Robert Morss, 28, of Glenshaw, must remain behind bars and should be considered a threat, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette first reported.

Morss has been charged with robbery and assault on Capitol police in connection with the incident, according to court documents.

Newsweek reports his lawyers argued he has been mistreated in jail and claimed that his background and service record should exempt him from continued incarceration.

Authorities citied Morss' leadership role in the attack:

"Every person who was present without authority in the Capitol on January 6 contributed to the chaos of that day and the danger posed to law enforcement, the United States Vice President, members of Congress, and the peaceful transfer of power. However, Morss violently led that effort and thus his specific conduct aggravated that chaos and danger," Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa Jackson reportedly wrote.

Further, authorities cited the fact that Morss has refused to apologize for his actions and has shown no remorse for his role in the violence.

After three years of service as an Army Ranger, including tours in Afghanistan, Morss reportedly attended Penn State and studied history in order to become a teacher.