Michigan man testifies in defense, claims pandemic restrictions were excessive
One of the men accused of assisting in a plot to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer took the witness stand on Thursday to testify in his own defense. Eric Molitor, 39, along with twin brothers William Null and Michael Null, is facing charges of providing material support for terrorist acts and gun crimes in connection with a 2020 scheme to kidnap Whitmer at her vacation home in Antrim County, Michigan.
Molitor’s decision to testify is uncommon, as only one other defendant out of the four trials held so far has taken the witness stand, and he was acquitted. During the first hour of his testimony, Molitor focused on his personal background and views about government, gun rights, and free speech, rather than addressing the specific allegations against him.
Molitor expressed his belief that the government-imposed restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic were excessive. Referring to the mask mandates, he stated, “Nobody should have to tell you to wear a mask. If it’s for your safety, that should be up to you.” Molitor and the Null brothers are accused of aiding the plot leaders, Adam Fox and Barry Croft Jr., who were vocal about their opposition to COVID-19 restrictions and had anti-government views even before the pandemic began.
Describing himself as a libertarian, Molitor revealed that he voted for Whitmer and Attorney General Dana Nessel, both Democrats, in the 2018 elections. Nessel’s office is prosecuting him in this case. While there is no dispute that Molitor drove with Fox to see Whitmer’s home in August 2020, his attorney argues that he was a small player who didn’t initially know they were targeting Whitmer’s residence.
Fourteen men involved in the kidnapping plot were arrested just a month before the November 2020 election. Nine have been convicted in state or federal court, while two have been acquitted. The group’s activities were closely monitored by informants and undercover FBI agents, who gathered evidence and made recordings. Despite the seriousness of the plot, Whitmer was not physically harmed.
After the plot was foiled, Whitmer blamed then-President Donald Trump, accusing him of giving “comfort to those who spread fear and hatred and division.” However, Trump referred to the kidnapping plan as a “fake deal” in August 2022.
The trial continues, and Molitor’s testimony sheds light on the motivations and beliefs of the individuals involved in the alleged plot to kidnap Governor Whitmer. The defense will have the opportunity to present further evidence and arguments in the coming days as the case unfolds.
Source: [AP News](https://apnews.com/article/gretchen-whitmer-michigan-crime-brian-higgins-united-states-government-ab78cc2f1ed40bd32991d13d2a3a3a2f)
Original Story at kdhnews.com – 2023-09-07 17:13:12
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