Anti-Vaccine California Doctor Sentenced To Prison For Storming Capitol

Topline

Known for spreading anti-vaccine rhetoric and COVID-19 misinformation, former emergency room doctor Simone Gold was sentenced to two months in prison for storming the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021.

Key Facts

Before taking part in the Capitol riot, Gold gained notoriety for spreading misinformation about COVID-19 and vaccinations through her right-wing group, America’s Frontline Doctors.

Indicted on five criminal counts, prosecutors say Gold knowingly entered the Capitol, a restricted building, after a law enforcement officer was assaulted in front of her.

Multiple law enforcement officers tried to stop Gold from giving a speech opposing lockdowns and COVID-19 vaccines in Statuary Hall, according to prosecutors.

In March, Gold pleaded guilty to entering and remaining in a restricted building, a misdemeanor charge.

Gold, who also holds a law degree from Stanford University, told the Washington Post she regretted attending the riot.

Key Background

Gold was charged alongside John Strand, who serves as communications director for America’s Frontline Doctors and has been described by prosecutors as Gold’s boyfriend. Strand filmed Gold giving a speech in Statuary Hall and has pleaded not guilty, with a trial that is supposed to start July 18, according to the Associated Press.

Big Number

At least 865 people have been charged in the Capitol Insurrection so far, with 309 pleading guilty to federal crimes.

Further Reading

Anti-vaccine doctor pleads guilty to joining Capitol riot (Associated Press)

Doctor, Lawyer, Insurrectionist: The Radicalization of Simone Gold (Mother Jones)

‘I do regret being there’: Simone Gold, noted hydroxychloroquine advocate, was inside the Capitol during the riot (Washington Post)