Edward Kelley, a Maryville man, was sentenced to life in prison plus five years of supervised release for plotting to kill Knoxville-area FBI agents. Convicted on November 20, 2024, after a three-day trial, Kelley was found guilty of conspiracy to murder federal employees, solicitation to commit a crime of violence, and threatening a federal official.

He created a “kill list” targeting over 30 people, including FBI agents investigating his role in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, where he was among the first to breach the building. Despite a presidential pardon for his January 6 crimes, Kelley’s motions for a new trial and to dismiss his conviction were denied.

Victims described living in fear, with some relocating or installing security systems. Kelley showed no remorse, claimed the FBI sought revenge, and did not address the victims in court.

His co-conspirator, Austin Carter, pleaded guilty and testified against him, with Carter’s sentencing set for August 4, 2025. Kelley has filed an appeal.