A Spencer Pratt devotee, eager to share the limelight with a Los Angeles mayoral hopeful during a media address on Tuesday night, has been identified as a participant in the January 6 Capitol riot and a convicted drug offender.
The supporter, Jonathan Mellis, was seen grinning behind Pratt before security personnel discreetly escorted him away during the candidate’s live interview at an election night gathering. Viewers quickly recognized Mellis and recalled his infamous history.
Mellis previously admitted to assaulting a police officer during the January 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol. Additionally, he has a criminal record involving a conviction for conspiracy to manufacture or sell methamphetamine, with past arrests for domestic violence, as reported by NPR.
Claiming mistreatment, Mellis later shared on social media that he was “assaulted” at the event, including a video showing security leading him out. During the exit, tensions briefly escalated, resulting in Mellis ending up on the ground.
Displaying his support for Pratt, Mellis had earlier spoken to NBC News, drink in hand, expressing his admiration for the candidate.
“He’s standing up against communism and socialism, which are significant issues in our cities, especially in LA, where things have deteriorated,” Mellis declared. “This decline isn’t accidental. It’s orchestrated. Karen Bass aims to ruin our city, and it’s refreshing to see someone like Spencer Pratt taking a stand.”
Mellis also seemed to cause trouble when the interview turned raucous, as he and another reported “Pratt bro” began darting back into the camera’s view after the interviewer tried to move on.
During the Pratt interview, he stood silently nodding with a smile across his face as the candidate spoke.
A person in the background can be seen approaching Mellis, as Pratt looks back and says, “Excuse me, sir.”
Pratt then awkwardly moved away while continuing the answer questions.
