US Capitol riot fugitive seeks asylum in Canada

An American man sentenced to nine months in prison for participating in the U.S. Capitol riot has fled to Canada, seeking political asylum while awaiting a potential pardon from Donald Trump.

Antony Vo, 32, from Indiana, was due to begin his sentence on June 14, 2024, after being convicted of four charges, including unlawful entry and disorderly conduct. Instead, he crossed into Canada, citing the country’s history of aiding refugees and claiming persecution for his political beliefs.

“I packed my snowboarding gear and drove across the border,” Vo told AFP, referencing Vietnam War draft dodgers and those who sheltered Edward Snowden as inspirations for his escape.

In his asylum application, Vo argued the January 6 riot was a peaceful protest “hijacked” to undermine Trump and his supporters. He described his trial as unjust and claimed he would face inhumane conditions if imprisoned in the U.S.

Over 1,500 individuals have faced charges for the Capitol attack, which disrupted Congress as it certified Joe Biden’s 2020 election victory. Trump, who urged supporters to march to the Capitol that day, falsely claimed the election was stolen. The riot left over 140 police officers injured, but Vo insists he witnessed no violence.

Photos show Vo and his mother, Annie, smiling inside the Capitol. Annie, who fled Vietnam in 1991 and received U.S. asylum, was later arrested and awaits trial. Vo hopes to remain in Canada until Trump returns to the White House, expecting a pardon for himself and other January 6 participants.

Trump has called the rioters “patriots” and “political prisoners,” suggesting he would pardon many of them. His return to office has already led several defendants to seek delays in their legal proceedings.

Charged himself with conspiring to overturn the 2020 election, Trump avoided trial under Justice Department rules shielding sitting presidents. Vo also explored asylum options in Argentina, Mexico, Vietnam, and even contemplated flying to Cuba on a paramotor.

“I’m grateful for Canada’s kindness,” Vo said, noting he feels safe for the first time since the Capitol incident.