In a controversial and closely monitored case, a federal judge in Orange County has granted bail to Robert Rundo, the accused leader of the defunct white supremacist group Rise Above Movement (RAM). The decision comes as a part of a protracted legal battle that has raised significant debate about the balance between national security, free speech, and the prosecution of hate groups.
U.S. District Judge Cormac J. Carney called into question the government’s use of resources on the case while delivering the bail order for Rundo, who was previously detained as a fugitive in Romania before being extradited to the United States last year. The decision is subject to a four-day review period imposed by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which means that the bail order will not be immediately effective.
Carney has previously dismissed the government’s case against Rundo and other RAM members twice, citing concerns about selective prosecution. He noted, “I understand international, dangerous people, and with all due respect to Mr. Rundo, he was a knucklehead who was misguided. This is not the felony of the century. I don’t have any evidence that anyone was seriously hurt, even Antifa, let alone innocent civilians.”
The federal government has been firm in its stance, with U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada stating, “We are prosecuting individuals associated with a militant white-supremacy organization,” emphasizing the ethical and constitutional conduct of the prosecutors.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Solomon Kim described Rundo as “an international fugitive who has evaded law enforcement systematically and repeatedly over the years,” highlighting his extensive travels and use of aliases to elude capture. Prosecutors also pointed to Rundo’s violent past, including a 2010 case where he was convicted for stabbing a person repeatedly.
In the courtroom, the government depicted a home steeped in Nazi iconography, suggesting a continued allegiance to extremist ideology. Prosecutors stressed the potential danger Rundo poses to the community, challenging Carney’s view of Rundo’s selective prosecution.
The allegations against Rundo date back to 2018 when he and others were charged with violating federal conspiracy and riot statutes connected to RAM’s involvement in several violent political rallies. The indictment detailed Rundo’s alleged role in organizing these confrontations, which included attacks on protesters and even police officers.
Carney ordered Rundo to surrender his passport and other travel documents, remain within the Central District of California, and reside at the Salvation Army Anaheim facility where he is currently staying. Additionally, Rundo is prohibited from possessing any weapons. Rundo will be subject to a “location monitoring program,” which means his movements will be tracked. He is also prohibited from associating with any white nationalist organizations or attending political rallies or events.
Nevertheless, Carney has laid out strict conditions for Rundo’s release, including the surrender of his passport, confinement to the Central District of California, and prohibitions against attending political rallies or associating with white nationalist organizations. Rundo will also be under a location monitoring program.
Relevant articles:
– Bail possible for accused white supremacist leader Robert Rundo , Los Angeles Times, 05/01/2024
– Federal Judge Orders Release of Defendant in Political Violence Case, MyNewsLA.com, 05/01/2024