Arizona Man Apprehended for Role in Jan. 6 Capitol Uprising

Jason Tasker was already serving a 7.5-year sentence for a drunk driving crash that resulted in a woman’s leg amputation that occurred in May of 2021.

GLENDALE, Ariz. — An Arizona man, already imprisoned for a severe DUI incident, faces new charges for his alleged role in the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection. Jason Tasker, 43, is now confronted with multiple felony and misdemeanor accusations for his actions during the Capitol riot. He was apprehended in Arizona on July 30, as disclosed by the United States Attorney’s Office.

Tasker, originally sentenced for a 2021 drunk driving accident that caused a woman’s leg amputation, had his warrant served in Eloy, Arizona. His prior convictions included at least 10 felonies, according to previous reporting.

Authorities say Tasker was part of the “Stop the Steal” rally on January 6, 2021. Documents reveal he entered the Capitol, followed law enforcement, and yelled, “all of you are dismissed; go home!” He allegedly forced his way into the building, clashed with officers, and remained outside the Capitol, making a phone call: “I was like the first person in, Momma,” he was recorded saying.

The FBI was tipped off about Tasker’s involvement after his mother shared photos from the event. By May 2021, agents confirmed his Capitol selfies with an acquaintance.

Tasker’s DUI conviction stemmed from a Memorial Day weekend crash involving motorcyclist Kimberly Pero, whose leg was later amputated. His BAC was nearly double the legal limit at the time of arrest. Tasker pleaded guilty and received a 7.5-year sentence in May of 2023.

The FBI, alongside the U.S. Capitol Police and Metropolitan Police Department, continues its investigation into Tasker’s Capitol actions. The U.S. Attorney’s Office states that 1,470 people have been charged nationwide from the Jan. 6 events, with over 530 facing law enforcement assault charges.

Stay tuned to Arizonanews.org for more updates on this developing story.