‘I’m gonna go on a killing spree:’ Prosecutors fight to include texts in Marion County man’s Capitol riot trial

Kelly Meggs charged with conspiracy to commit sedition

Kelly Meggs (Copyright 2021 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved.)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Federal prosecutors are asking a judge to allow text messages be used in the case against a Marion County man charged in connection with the Capitol riot.

FBI agents arrested Kelly Meggs, of Dunnellon, soon after Jan. 6, 2021.

Recommended Videos



[TRENDING: ‘They will arrest you:’ Dad, toddler removed from flight in Orlando | Best counties to retire to in Florida | Kennedy Space Center now offering free admission to teachers nationwide | Become a News 6 Insider (it’s free!)]

They claim he was the Florida leader of the Oath Keepers group at the time, and he is charged with conspiring with other members of the group to overthrow the government. In court documents filed on Friday, federal prosecutors asked a judge to deny a motion submitted by Meggs’ attorneys.

They had asked that text messages sent by Meggs to his family on Election Night in 2020 be taken off the table for use in his trial.

According to prosecutors, the messages were sent to Meggs’ wife Connie and his son Zack at 7:54 p.m. on Nov. 3, 2020.

“I’m gonna go on a killing spree,” Meggs is reported to have written.

“Then 10 seconds later, ‘Pelosi first,’” the court filing reads.

Meggs’ attorneys claim the text message were privileged since they were exchanged between a husband and wife.

Prosecutors disagreed, arguing that privilege does not apply to these text messages because it shows participation in criminal activity.

A judge has not ruled on whether the text messages will be allowed in court.

Meggs’ trial date is set for Sept. 26.

He is one of 30 Central Florida residents charged in connection with the Capitol Hill riot.

Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily:


About the Author:

Erik Sandoval joined the News 6 team as a reporter in May 2013 and became an Investigator in 2020. During his time at News 6, Erik has covered several major stories, including the 2016 Presidential campaign. He was also one of the first reporters live on the air at the Pulse Nightclub shooting.

Recommended Videos