The Michigan Court of Appeals on Tuesday overturned the conviction of Joseph Morrison tied to the alleged 2020 plot to kidnap Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, finding the terrorism statute was improperly applied because kidnapping does not qualify as a predicate felony under that provision.
Morrison was convicted in 2022 for providing material support for a terroristic act as a member of the Wolverine Watchmen. Prosecutors said he participated in gun drills in Jackson County alongside Adam Fox, described as a key figure in the alleged plot with Barry Croft Jr., both of whom were previously convicted and sentenced to 16 years in prison.
In a 3-0 ruling, the court reversed the conviction, finding the legal basis for the terrorism charge did not apply as used in the case.. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel called the decision “completely and irredeemably nonsensical, outrageous and irresponsible,” and said she would appeal.
The alleged 2020 plot, described by prosecutors as a coordinated plan to kidnap the governor, was disrupted after FBI informants infiltrated the group, leading to 14 arrests. Whitmer was never physically harmed, and the overall case has seen mixed outcomes, including multiple acquittals and overturned charges.
