A local woman involved in the Capitol riot will be released from the Butler County Prison into home detention pending trial.
During an appeal of a detention hearing on Thursday, a federal judge denied a motion by the government to keep 40-year-old Rachel Powell of Mercer County—known as the “pink hat lady”—in custody.
While the government believes Powell may be a flight risk, her attorney argued that the mother of eight will not abandon her family or community and also willingly gave up her weapons. While on home detention, Powell must stay in Western PA and must wear a mask when leaving the house. Her next appearance in court is to be determined.
In denying an appeal motion by the government of an earlier decision that Powell should be released, the judge pointed to “overwhelming” evidence of guilt of serious felonies. She also called an interview Powell gave with a media publication “offensive” and lacking in remorse.
Powell was arrested for her role in the January 6th attack on the Capitol building. Photographic and video evidence shows Powell using a battering ram to break a window and shouting directions with a bullhorn.
