Attack On Cops During Capitol Riot Lands Delco Man Prison Time

CHESTER, PA — A former Delaware County firefighter will spend more than four years in prison for his role in attacking police officers and more during the Jan. 6, 2021 riot at the U.S. Capitol.

Federal authorities Tuesday said Robert Sanford Jr., 57, of Chester, sentenced to 52 months in prison and 36 months of supervised release.

Sanford pleaded guilty in September 2022 to assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers using a dangerous weapon.

Authorities said he threw a fire extinguisher at Capitol Police, hitting three in the head.

He was screaming "traitors" at police during the riot, as well, according to authorities.

A federal judge also ordered Sanford to pay $2,000 in restitution to the Architect of the Capitol and $3,798 in restitution to the medical expenses of the U.S. Capitol Police officer he injured.

Sanford, who was arrested just days after the riot on Jan. 14, 2021, underwent "cult deprogramming" and admitted he was caught up in "mob mentality" when he spoke in court, according to NBC10.

Authorities said since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,000 people have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 320 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement.