Robert Paul Rundo, the 34-year-old leader of a Southern California white supremacist organization, has been sentenced to two years in federal prison for orchestrating violence at multiple political rallies across California in 2017.
Rundo, who co-founded the Rise Above Movement (RAM), pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges related to violating the federal Anti-Riot Act. Federal prosecutors described RAM as a militant, combat-ready group promoting white supremacy and nationalism.
According to court documents, Rundo and two associates planned and participated in violent activities at gatherings in Huntington Beach and San Bernardino throughout 2017.
The case has followed a complex legal path. Initially arrested in 2018 for inciting violence at California protests and the Charlottesville riot, Rundo saw the charges dismissed by a federal court in 2019. However, a federal appeals court reinstated the charges in 2021.
During the period when charges were dismissed, Rundo fled the United States. He was later located in Romania and extradited back to face the reinstated charges.
U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada emphasized the importance of protecting civil rights, stating that "Hate and violence are antithetical to American values and tear at our community."
The sentencing marks a notable development in federal efforts to prosecute individuals involved in organizing politically motivated violence through extremist groups.