A Washington, D.C., judge has ordered a man who allegedly carried firearms into former President Obama’s D.C. neighborhood last week to be jailed pending trial.
“I do believe detention is appropriate in this case,” Magistrate Judge Zia Faruqui said of Taylor Tarango, who is also a Jan. 6 defendant. Faruqui added that while the government’s argument was not a “slam dunk,” he believes prosecutors showed with “clear and convincing evidence” that no combination of conditions could ensure the safety of the community.
Police arrested Taranto earlier this month, after he claimed on a livestream that he possessed explosives. The open warrant for his arrest, however, stems from four misdemeanor charges related to his alleged involvement in the U.S. Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021.
The judge noted that while he “can’t predict the future,” he remains concerned that the suspect’s release “could be catastrophic,” given his access to weapons and ammunition, as well as the distinct possibility that Taranto’s “demons could come back,” in reference to the defendant’s mental health challenges.
Faruqui also acknowledged that the government has fallen short in providing Taranto, a U.S. Navy veteran who was honorably discharged, with the services he needs. “I failed you… we as a country have failed you… after you were willing to make the ultimate sacrifice.” In one aside, he said he could not begin to fathom what Taranto experienced while serving in combat, during his tour in Iraq.
“Now you are paying the price,” Faruqui added. “I’m sorry. My apology is meaningless.”
The judge noted repeatedly that his decision relied on possible “dangerousness” of the defendant, rather than any risk of flight.
Faruqui also vowed to continue to work with the D.C. jail to ensure Taranto is better cared for, after Taranto suffered a violent attack just a day ago and had his tablet stolen, limiting his communication with his attorney.
Taranto appeared in court in an orange jumpsuit and glasses. Both his wife and mother attended the trial remotely, appearing on a screen via zoom throughout the hearing. The suspect’s mother briefly spoke with the judge to confirm her willingness to supervise any at-home detention, an option ultimately dismissed by the judge.
The next hearing has been preliminarily set for Tuesday, July 25.
Taranto’s defense attorney told Faruqui, “We do intend to appeal,” at the conclusion of the hearing.
