U.S Capitol Police found six officers guilty of violations during the Jan. 6 insurrection. The department launched 38 internal investigations, after reports that some officers assisted or supported pro-Trump rioters.
In 12 of the 38 cases, there was not enough information to identify the officer involved, per the department, and out of the remaining 26 cases, there were 20 where no wrongdoing was found. One case is still pending. The department’s Office of Professional Responsibility conducted the investigations.
In the six cases where disciplinary action was recommended, three violations were for conduct unbecoming, one was for failure to comply with directives, one was for improper remarks, and one was for improper dissemination of information.
“The six sustained cases should not diminish the heroic efforts of the United States Capitol Police officers,” reads a USCP announcement on the investigations, released on Saturday. “On January 6, the bravery and courage exhibited by the vast majority of our employees was inspiring.”
Five people died during the violent attack by pro-Trump extremists, including one police officer.
Shortly after the insurrection, reports surfaced of one officer taking a selfie with the rioters, and another wearing a MAGA hat and directing rioters through the Capitol building. Two men arrested in relation to the mob attack later told the FBI they were greeted by an officer who shook their hands, saying, “It’s your house now.” Six officers were suspended.
USCP did not release the names of those being disciplined, did not specify what disciplinary measures would be taken, and did not provide details about their conduct. None of the officers were found to have committed criminal offenses.
In August, USCP completed an investigation into the fatal shooting of rioter Ashli Babbitt by one of its officers. The name of that officer – who will not face disciplinary action, USCP said — has also not been released.
The announcement comes just days before another planned rally near the Capitol, this time to support Jan. 6 insurrectionists facing charges. Ahead of the so-called “Justice for J6” rally on Saturday, the Metropolitan Police Department will activate the entire force, and the fencing around the Capitol building is expected to return.
Jacob Fenston