Defense Seeks Remote Deposition of Oath Keepers Expert on Group’s Longstanding Role Providing Security

Sixteen Capitol Police officers are led down the east steps of the Capitol by members of the Oath Keepers on Jan. 6. Courtesy of Roberto Minuta

Defense attorneys want to depose a retired U.S. Army colonel and test pilot—among the longest serving members of the Oath Keepers—regarding the group’s long-standing role in providing security at events, civil disturbances, and natural disasters.

Retired Col. John Siemens, 76, would provide exculpatory testimony benefitting the five defendants in the Oath Keepers seditious-conspiracy trial, but cannot come to Washington due to seriously declining health, attorneys said.