Seven members of a Michigan-based militia known as the Hutaree have begun their trial over allegations that they wanted to overthrow the U.S. government.
Members of the militia have been charged with rebellion, firearms offenses, attempting to use weapons of mass destruction, and others, according to the Detroit Free Press. If convicted, they could face life in prison.
“These individuals, led by David Stone Sr., wanted an armed confrontation with law enforcement and the federal government,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Graveline said in front of a U.S. District Court jury, according to the newspaper. “They wanted to start the war. … Patriots rising up against the government.”
Tina Mae Stone, a co-defendant and the wife of Stone, who is considered the leader of the group, said, “It was just a bunch of good ol' boys out to have fun,” according to WDIV-4 television.
“We did survival stuff. I did it mostly to spend time with my husband,” she said.
