AceShowbiz - The once-beloved voice behind Jimmy Pesto Sr. on "Bob's Burgers" now finds himself on the other side of the law. Jay Johnston, actor and comedian, has been sentenced to one year and a day in federal prison for his participation in the January 6 Capitol Riots.

The 55-year-old actor, who had a notable career in Hollywood with roles on "Mr. Show with Bob and David" and "The Sarah Silverman Program", pleaded guilty to a felony obstruction of law enforcement charge. The plea deal led to the dropping of three other charges initially brought against him.

Johnston was arrested in June 2023 after internet sleuths, aided by FBI-posted photos, helped identify him. Prosecutors argued that Johnston, leveraging his celebrity status, made a notable impression among the rioters. He was seen wielding a stolen police riot shield and pushing against officers defending the Capitol, all while filming the chaotic events on his cell phone.

Authorities revealed that Johnston booked flights to Washington D.C. on January 4, 2021, and returned to Los Angeles three days later. Despite incriminating text messages and video evidence, Johnston downplayed his involvement in the riot, stating, "The news has presented it as an attack. It actually wasn't. Thought it kind of turned into that."

U.S. District Judge Carl J. Nichols not only sentenced Johnston to prison but also mandated two years of supervised release post-sentence and a $2,000 restitution payment. Prosecutors had sought an 18-month sentence, suggesting Johnston's lack of remorse warranted a harsher penalty.

Johnston's defense attorney Stanley Woodward argued that the actor's role was overstated by prosecutors aiming to make an example out of a Hollywood figure. Nonetheless, the severity of Johnston's actions-both physical and symbolic-could not be ignored in the court's judgment.

Johnston's story serves as a stark reminder that public figures, cherished for bringing joy and laughter, are not beyond the reach of justice when involved in criminal actions. His journey from comedy to criminal activity is a sobering reflection on accountability, no matter the stage one occupies.

As Johnston prepares to serve his sentence, the larger narrative of the January 6 Capitol Riots continues to unfold, adding his name to the list of over 1,500 individuals charged for their roles in that fateful day, according to the Justice Department.