Full Breakdown
Michigan Court of Appeals Overturns Conviction in Whitmer Kidnapping Plot
6/11/2026, 1:16:45 AM
Core Event: Appeals Court Vacates Morrison’s Conviction
On June 9 2026, a three-judge Michigan Court of Appeals unanimously reversed the 2022 conviction of Jackson County resident Joseph Morrison. The panel held that kidnapping does not meet the statutory definition of a “violent felony,” nullifying the terrorism-related material-support, gang-membership and firearm convictions and remanding the case for a new trial.
Background and Key Actors
The 2020 plan to abduct Governor Gretchen Whitmer was hatched by Wolverine Watchmen militia members who held gun drills in Jackson County and discussed killing police. Federal and state agents, using informants, arrested 14 militants in October 2020, including Joseph Morrison, Adam Fox and Barry Croft Jr. Morrison received a sentence of four to 20 years for gang and terrorism support plus a two-year firearm term.
Legal Reasoning
Michigan’s anti-terrorism law defines a “violent felony” as an offense involving the use or threatened use of physical force. The appellate judges found that kidnapping lacks this element, writing: “Because the ‘use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force’ is not an element of kidnapping, kidnapping is not a ‘violent felony’ falling within the definition of an ‘act of terrorism.’” This reading stripped the material-support charge of its statutory foundation.
Official Statements & Responses
The opinion was authored by Judges Thomas Cameron, Mark Boonstra and Brock Swartzle, all appointed by former Governor Rick Snyder. Defense lawyer Michael Faraone praised the ruling as “justice” and a “great day when a court delivers justice,” emphasizing that the statutory language, not the facts, dictated the reversal.
Criticism & Opposition
Attorney General Dana Nessel called the ruling “completely and irredeemably nonsensical, outrageous and irresponsible,” adding it “strains all legal credibility.” Governor Whitmer’s chief of staff JoAnne Huls warned the decision “invites a culture of fear and violence in Michigan and the country.” State Representative Alabas Farhat called the reversal “a terrible mistake” that lets political violence go unpunished.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This ruling is completely and irredeemably nonsensical, outrageous and irresponsible.” — Dana Nessel, Michigan Attorney General
- “kidnapping is not a violent felony,” — Michigan Court of Appeals (opinion)
- “When radical extremists like Joseph Morrison can commit crimes and then walk free, it sends an alarming message and condones political violence,” — JoAnne Huls, Whitmer’s chief of staff
- “Those who organize political violence must face real consequences under the law every time, no exceptions,” — Alabas Farhat, State Representative
What’s Next
Attorney General Nessel’s office will appeal the decision to the Michigan Supreme Court. The vacated convictions have been sent back to the Jackson County Circuit Court, where prosecutors may file new charges or seek a retrial. The ruling’s effect on co-defendants Paul Bellar and Pete Musico remains unresolved.
