Full Breakdown
Michigan Appeals Court Overturns Terrorism Convictions in 2020 Whitmer Kidnap Plot
7/21/2026, 6:58:47 AM
Appeals Court Overturns Convictions
On July 20, 2026, a panel of the Michigan Court of Appeals set aside the convictions of Pete Musico and Paul Bellar for providing material support to an act of terrorism. Both men, along with co-defendant Joe Morrison, had been linked to a scheme to kidnap Governor Gretchen Whitmer that was foiled by FBI informants in October 2020. The court ruled that kidnapping does not qualify as an “underlying violent felony” that can support a conviction under Michigan’s terrorism statute, leading to the reversal on technical grounds.
Legal Basis for the Ruling
The appeals panel interpreted the state terrorism law narrowly, concluding that the statute requires a qualifying violent felony as a predicate offense. Because the alleged kidnapping was not deemed such a felony, the court found the terrorism-related convictions legally untenable. The decision follows a precedent-setting June ruling that dismissed Morrison’s conviction on the same reasoning, obligating the panel to apply the same standard to Musico and Bellar.
Attorney General’s Response
Attorney General Dana Nessel condemned the decision, describing the court’s reasoning as “linguistic gymnastics.” She announced plans to petition the Michigan Supreme Court to review the appellate rulings and restore the convictions.
Criticism of the Decision
State officials and prosecutors have expressed concern that the technical dismissal undermines accountability for plots targeting public officials. By focusing on statutory language rather than the broader threat posed by the conspirators, critics argue the ruling could limit future terrorism prosecutions in Michigan.
Verbatim Quotes
- “linguistic gymnastics” — Dana Nessel, Michigan Attorney General
- “The appeals court said kidnapping is not an underlying violent felony that can support a conviction under Michigan’s terrorism law.” — Michigan Court of Appeals decision
The overturning of Musico’s and Bellar’s convictions marks a significant legal development in the aftermath of the 2020 Whitmer kidnapping plot, highlighting tensions between statutory interpretation and efforts to deter politically motivated violence.
