Magistrate denies bond for Ohio man in Capitol breach case

DAYTON » A federal magistrate refused Friday to set bond for an Ohio man charged with helping plot the attack on the U.S. Capitol.

The Dayton judge said didn’t see a way to ensure public safety if she allowed Donovan Crowl, 50, out of jail. Magistrate Sharon Ovington cited the “very serious” nature of the charges and firearms that could be available to him.

“The suggestion that I release him to a residence containing at least nine firearms is a nonstarter,” the magistrate said.

The Dayton Daily News reported that Crowl’s courtappointed attorney contended he had little criminal history and had tried to rescue others during the Jan. 6 riots.

Crowl on Tuesday became among the first suspects charged with conspiracy.

Also charged was Jessica Watkins, 38, also of Champaign County, Ohio. Watkins

remains held without bond in the Montgomery County jail.

The FBI identified them as part of the Oath Keepers, which believes in a “shadowy conspiracy” to strip Americans of their rights.

Details of the documents made public offer some insight to planning and coordination behind the extraordinary attack involving extremist supporters of then-President Donald Trump.

Watkins and Crowl allegedly belong to the Ohio State Regular Militia, duespaying members of the Oath Keepers.

They are charged with counts including conspiracy, conspiracy to hurt an officer, violent entry, obstruction of official business, and destruction of government property.

Asked in a Tuesday hearing whether she understood the charges, the Daily News reported, Watkins replied: “I understand them but I don’t understand how I got them.”