First, a September 2021 report from NBC News:
The attorney for Matthew Perna has filed a motion asking the United Probation Office to prepare a pre-plea guideline analysis that would give Perna an idea of what penalties he would face if he pleads guilty to the indictment handed up against him.
Perna of Sharon, Pennsylvania, is charged with witness tampering, two counts of entering a restricted building, and disorderly conduct following the insurrection at the Capitol building.
A video posted to Perna’s Facebook account showed three people discussing their experiences in Washington DC during the riot. Perna is believed to be one of the men speaking in the video. Perna told investigators that he did not intend to enter the Capitol but was pushed in by the crowd.
And here’s an excerpt from his lengthy obituary:
Matthew Lawrence Perna died on Friday, February 25, 2022 of a broken heart. His community, which he loved, his country and the justice system killed his spirit and his zest for life. He attended the rally on January 6, 2021 to peacefully stand up for his beliefs.
After learning that the FBI was looking for him, he immediately turned himself in. He entered the Capitol through a previously opened door (he did not break in as was reported), where he was ushered in by police.
He didn’t break, touch or steal anything. He did not harm anyone, as he stayed within the velvet ropes taking pictures. For this act he has been persecuted by many members of his community, friends, relatives and people who had never met him.
Many people were quietly supportive and Matt was truly grateful for them. The constant delays in hearings and postponements dragged out for over a year.
Because of this, Matt’s heart broke and his spirit died and many people are responsible for the pain he endured. Matt’s family stood by him during this devastating ordeal and are extremely proud of his passion for life and his pursuit of many dreams.
His actions last year are not looked down upon, instead his family is grateful and humbled by his courage. They say God never gives anyone more than they can handle. That statement is not Biblical, nor is it true. Rest Easy Matt, you are finally FREE!
According to a November 18th court filing, Perna intended to plead guilty to one felony and three misdemeanor counts. The usual nutbags are reacting predictably.
2. Very few Members of Congress, Senators, and no one on the White House has given a single ounce of care at the grave injustices and extreme violations of human rights happening to PRETRIAL J6 defendants.
Now another J6 political prisoner of war has committed suicide.
— Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) February 28, 2022
4. Those that are participating in the political warfare and abuse of PRETRIAL J6 defendants must be held accountable.
Punishing people to the point of losing all hope to the point they kill themselves means you all have blood on your hands.
Prosecutors, judges, and the jails.
— Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) February 28, 2022
Matthew Perna did nothing criminal on January 6.
But Joe Biden, Merrick Garland, Chris Wray, Matthew Graves (Us Aty in DC), federal judges and the soulless news media called him a terrorist.
After more than a year of torture, he couldn’t take it anymore: https://t.co/DH22DFYMLj
— Julie Kelly ?? (@julie_kelly2) February 28, 2022
*Matthew Perna of Sharpsville PA is arrested in Capitol riot.
*He’s expressed regret: “I foolishly allowed myself to get drawn into the negative energy emanating from that building.”
*He said the experience drew him closer to Christ. “Also, expect a book.”https://t.co/PYa1rdZOn5 pic.twitter.com/xjaaOKL49c— Jim Roberts (@nycjim) January 19, 2021
I don’t know Matthew Perna, haven’t studied his case or accusations against him. But he’s killed himself & I understand why. I had the same thoughts many times this past year. The deafening silence of Republicans &conservative media for ppl dragged through this hell is unbearable https://t.co/43cC1s2SHk
— Brandon Straka (@BrandonStraka) February 27, 2022