Key facts
- Anthony Kazmierczak was sentenced to 14 months in prison for spraying Ilhan Omar with vinegar.
- Kazmierczak pleaded guilty to assaulting a federal official.
- The attack occurred during a town hall event in Minneapolis.
- Kazmierczak will serve three years of supervised release and must have no contact with Omar.
Anthony Kazmierczak was sentenced to 14 months in prison on Thursday for spraying U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar with vinegar during a town hall event in Minneapolis on January 27. He will also serve three years of supervised release, which includes a prohibition on contacting Omar.
U.S. District Judge Joan Ericksen stated that the attack was not a spur-of-the-moment act, noting that Kazmierczak had obtained tickets for the event weeks in advance. She characterized the assault on a public figure as misguided and selfish, emphasizing the fear such actions can cause elected officials.
Kazmierczak, who has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, appeared visibly shaken during the sentencing. His attorney argued that Kazmierczak had not been taking his mental health medication prior to the incident, which may have lowered his inhibitions. Kazmierczak apologized to Omar for the distress caused by the attack.
Authorities later identified the sprayed liquid as a mixture of water and apple cider vinegar. Kazmierczak pleaded guilty to assaulting a US officer. Prosecutors noted that Kazmierczak had sent text messages indicating his intent to do something at the meeting involving Omar, though he did not specify his plans.
The incident occurred amid heightened tensions in the Minneapolis area due to an immigration crackdown, which had led to protests and clashes with immigration officers.