LOS ANGELES, CA – A man described by prosecutors as a far-right white supremacist was sentenced to two years in federal prison on Friday for his involvement in violent clashes at political events across California.
Robert Paul Rundo, 34, formerly of Huntington Beach, pleaded guilty in September to one count of conspiracy to violate the federal Anti-Riot Act. Federal prosecutors identified Rundo as a member of the “Rise Above Movement” (RAM), which they described as a white nationalist group promoting violence at political rallies.
According to prosecutors, between March 2017 and May 2018, Rundo and RAM associates attended rallies with the intention of inciting violence. Rundo also organized training sessions that taught participants hand-to-hand combat techniques, with videos of the sessions shared online under hashtags such as “#rightwingdeathsquad.”
Rundo’s participation in three violent political rallies was highlighted during the sentencing hearing.
At a pro-Trump rally in Huntington Beach on March 25, 2017, Rundo and other RAM members attacked counter-protesters, including one incident where Rundo tackled and punched a demonstrator. Photos and videos of the altercation were later shared on social media, celebrating the violence.
In April 2017, Rundo traveled with RAM members to Berkeley, where several violent clashes broke out during a political rally. Prosecutors said Rundo crossed a police barrier separating opposing groups and punched and kicked multiple attendees.
The third incident occurred on June 10, 2017, during a rally in San Bernardino, where Rundo confronted protesters.
In the lead-up to these events, Rundo organized combat training sessions to prepare participants for physical altercations, prosecutors said.
Two other RAM members are facing charges. Robert Boman, 31, of Torrance, has pleaded not guilty to conspiracy to violate the Anti-Riot Act and rioting, with his next court appearance scheduled for February 18, 2025. Tyler Laube, 28, of Redondo Beach, pleaded guilty in October to one count of interfering with a federally protected right and was fined $2,000 and sentenced to time served.
United States District Judge Josephine L. Staton handed down Rundo’s sentence of 24 months in federal prison, underscoring the severity of his actions in fostering and inciting violence at politically charged events.
The Rise Above Movement, described by prosecutors as a “fighting group” driven by white nationalist ideology, has faced significant legal scrutiny as authorities work to address the rise of politically motivated violence.
