US Capitol Rioters and DC Prosecutions
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, March 10, 2023
D.C. Man Sentenced to Eight Years For Multiple Armed Carjackings
WASHINGTON – Daron Cottingham, 20, of Washington D.C., was sentenced today to 10 years in prison, with two years suspended, for two counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence or dangerous crime and one count carjacking that stem from crimes he committed in January of 2022, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Chief Robert J. Contee, III, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). In addition to the prison term, Superior Court Judge Errol Arthur ordered two years of supervised probation and 90 hours of community service. The sentence was rendered as part of the Youth Rehabilitation Act.
According to court documents, on January 18, 2022, Cottingham, approached a person cleaning a BMW vehicle in the rear of 316 34th Street, NE, Washington DC. Cottingham took out a firearm and demanded the vehicle keys from the victim. The defendant then struck the victim once in the nose with the firearm, causing bleeding. The defendant took the vehicle keys and the victim’s phone before driving away in the BMW.
Just over a week later, on January 28, 2022, the defendant booked a ride through Lyft. When the Lyft reached the intersection of I-295 and the 11th Street Bridge, the defendant pulled out a firearm, aimed it at the driver’s head, and demanded that the driver exit the vehicle. The victim fled from the vehicle, at which point Cottingham took control of the vehicle and took off. The defendant then led MPD on a chase, pursued by MPD cruisers and a helicopter. He eventually drove the vehicle to the 2600 block of Birney Place SE, where he ditched the vehicle while it was still moving. The vehicle continued on until it hit a snowbank. The defendant ran into an apartment building located in the 2600 block of Birney Place SE. After entering the building, Cottingham concealed his firearm. MPD officers arrived at the building shortly thereafter and arrested the defendant.
At the time of his arrest, the defendant had bank and identification cards belonging to the Lyft driver. MPD officers also recovered a ring of car keys, one of which was a BMW key that matched the BMW taken by the defendant in the January 18th offense. MPD officers also recovered the firearm.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Graves and Chief Contee commended the work of the officers and detectives with the Metropolitan Police Department who conducted the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Andy Wang, with the office’s Violence Reduction Trafficking Section who prosecuted the case.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, December 21, 2022
Texas Man Found Guilty of Felony and Misdemeanor Charges Related to Capitol Breach
Defendant Watched Members of Congress Evacuate, then Participated in Breaking the Windows of the Speaker’s Lobby Door
WASHINGTON – A Texas man was found guilty in the District of Columbia today of felony and misdemeanor charges for his actions during the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol breach. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the presidential election.
Christopher Grider, 41, of Eddy, Texas, was found guilty of a total nine charges including three felonies. Grider pleaded guilty to the misdemeanors of entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, and parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol building prior to the start of trial. He was found guilty, following a bench trial before U.S. District Court Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly, of civil disorder, obstruction of an official proceeding, destruction of government property, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, and an act of physical violence in the Capitol grounds or buildings. Sentencing is scheduled for May 23, 2023.
According to the evidence introduced at trial, Grider entered the scaffolding on the northwest terrace of the Capitol with a crowd of rioters who had pushed through a police line. He then obtained a bike rack and used it to climb to the terrace stairs, and then proceeded up the terrace stairs – at one point, stopping to wave rioters toward the Capitol. Once inside the Capitol, Grider found an electric utility box and pressed buttons as he yelled “Turn the power off!” He then proceeded to the Crypt, where he was part of another group of rioters who pushed through a police line. After taking a picture of a map of the Capitol, and exclaiming, “We gotta get into the Chamber!,” Grider proceeded to the hallway outside of the House Chamber, where he waved more rioters in. After this group of rioters pushed through the police line that stood between the mob and the House Main Door, Grider stood with other rioters directly outside of the House Main Door, as they attempted to get inside the House Chamber. He offered his black helmet up after other rioters yelled, “Use your helmet! Use your Kevlar,” and “Knock the windows out with Kevlar!”
Grider then ran from the House Main Door to the Speaker’s Lobby Door, where he watched members of Congress and staff evacuate on the other side. He gave his helmet to another rioter, knocking on it apparently to demonstrate its hardness, and pushed on the door. The rioter proceeded to use the helmet to break the windows in the door.
Within seconds, Grider was observed backing away from the Speaker’s Lobby door as other individuals were screaming, “gun.” The officer on the other side of the door subsequently fired a single gunshot that struck and killed a woman. After the shooting, police ordered rioters to move away from the scene. Grider remained and could be seen leaning over the railing to get a better glimpse of the woman bleeding on the floor. Grider was holding his phone over the stairway appearing to capture a video or pictures of the woman.
Grider was arrested on Jan. 21, 2021, in Austin, Texas.
The obstruction charge carries a statutory maximum of 20 years’ incarceration, while the civil disorder charge carries a statutory maximum of five years in prison and the destruction of property charge carries a statutory maximum of ten years in prison. The misdemeanor charges carry the following statutory maximums terms of incarceration: entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, one year; disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, one year; engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds, one year; disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, six months; act of physical violence in the Capitol grounds or buildings, six months; parading, demonstrating, or picketing in a Capitol building, six months. Fines and/or restitution could also be imposed. The Court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. Valuable assistance was provided by U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas.
The case was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office. Valuable assistance was provided by the FBI’s San Antonio Field Office and the U.S. Capitol Police.
In the 23 months since Jan. 6, 2021, nearly 900 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 275 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
Topic(s):
Violent Crime
Component(s):
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
Press Release Number:
22-468
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, December 21, 2022
Former MPD Officers Convicted In The Death of 20-Year-Old Karon Hylton-Brown
Jurors Found Evidence of a Conscious Disregard of the Extreme Risk of Harm
A jury sitting in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia returned guilty verdicts against two former members of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) in connection with a fatal police pursuit, on Oct. 23, 2020, in Northwest Washington, that caused the death of Karon Hylton-Brown, announced Matthew M. Graves, U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, and Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Washington Field Office’s Criminal Division.
Terence Sutton, 38, an officer, was found guilty of second degree murder, conspiracy to obstruct, and obstruction of justice. Andrew Zabavsky, 54, a former lieutenant, was found guilty of conspiracy to obstruct and obstruction of justice. The trial was heard before the Honorable Paul L. Friedman in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled.
The jury found that Sutton caused Mr. Hylton-Brown’s death by driving a police vehicle in conscious disregard for an extreme risk of death or serious bodily injury to Mr. Hylton-Brown. The jury further found that Sutton and Zabavsky conspired and combined to hide from MPD officials the circumstances of the traffic crash leading to Mr. Hylton-Brown’s death.
At the time of the police pursuit, Sutton was assigned to the Crime Suppression Team in MPD’s Fourth Police District. Zabavsky supervised the Fourth Police District’s Crime Suppression Team officers, including Sutton. The pursuit began at approximately 10 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 23, 2020, after officers observed Mr. Hylton-Brown, 20, driving a moped on a sidewalk in the Brightwood Park area of Northwest Washington. The pursuit continued on neighborhood streets for more than 10 blocks and into an alley off the 700 block of Kennedy Street NW. Immediately upon exiting the alley and entering Kennedy Street, Mr. Hylton-Brown was struck by an oncoming civilian vehicle. He suffered severe head trauma and died on Oct. 25, 2020.
The charge of second-degree murder carries a statutory maximum of 40 years in prison. The conspiracy charge carries a statutory maximum of five years and the obstruction of justice charge carries a maximum of 20 years. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case was investigated by the Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the FBI’s Washington Field Office. The case is being prosecuted by the Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
Topic(s):
Violent Crime
Component(s):
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
Press Release Number:
22-469
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, December 22, 2022
Two Colombian Nationals Plead Guilty to International Cocaine Distribution
Defendants Had Ties to Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC)
WASHINGTON – Mauricio Mazabel-Soto, 45, and Alfredo Molina-Cutiva, 53, both citizens of Colombia, pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute large quantities of cocaine for importation into the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Acting Regional Director Omar Arellano. Mazabel-Soto entered his plea on December 20, 2022. Molina-Cutiva entered his plea on November 28, 2022. U.S. District Court Judge Amit P. Mehta scheduled Molina-Cutiva’s sentencing hearing for March 31, 2023, and Mazabel-Soto’s for April 23, 2023.
In 2018, DEA agents began investigating large-scale drug traffickers with ties to the terrorist group known as the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). During a long-term investigation, defendant Mazabel-Soto represented himself as someone authorized to enter into large cocaine production agreements on behalf of the FARC and portrayed co-defendant Molina-Cutiva as being responsible for FARC drug trafficking logistics in southwestern Colombia. Additionally, the defendants represented that defendant Molina-Cutiva was responsible for all FARC cocaine laboratories in Huila and Caqueta, Colombia as well as transferring cocaine across the border with Ecuador for exportation north by way of the Pacific Ocean.
During a series of recorded meetings, defendants Mazabel-Soto and Molina-Cutiva offered to produce large quantities of cocaine for an individual they believed was representing a major Mexican drug cartel. In one particular meeting, the defendants proposed a business agreement wherein the Mexican cartel would invest $2 milllion (USD) in their business and the FARC would construct a cocaine laboratory for the cartel, where they would have exclusive rights to the production. The defendants stated that the first 1,000 kilograms produced would be free and the FARC would then produce an additional 1,000 kilograms of cocaine for the cartel every few weeks, at a cost of $1,600 (USD) per kilogram. The defendants agreed to place designer stamps on each kilogram of cocaine, including the logo for the Detroit Tigers Major League Baseball team.
In April 2019, in Bogota, Colombia, defendant Mazabel-Soto provided another individual with a five-kilogram “sample” of cocaine to demonstrate the quality. Mazabel-Soto accepted $11,000 (USD) for this sample delivery. DEA lab results show that the cocaine was 96% pure.
On June 25, 2019, defendant Mazabel-Soto was arrested in Colombia and, on April 16, 2021, was extradited to the United States; co-defendant Cutiva was arrested in Colombia on August 8, 2019 and, on January 25, 2021, was extradited to the United States. An additional co-defendant (Aldemar Soto-Charry) was arrested in Colombia on August 8, 2019, and is pending extradition.
As part of their plea agreements, defendants Mazabel-Soto and Molina-Cutiva agreed that they were accountable for conspiring to distribute at least 1,000 kilograms of cocaine, which quantity represented the total amount involved in their relevant criminal conduct
Each defendant faces a statutory maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, with the possibility of fines. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
In announcing the plea, U.S. Attorney Graves and DEA Acting Regional Director Arellano commended the work of those who investigated the case, including the DEA’s Bogota Country office, the FBI LEGAT Bogota, and the FBI Miami Field Office. They acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Rosenberg and Anthony Scarpelli, and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Goddard, of the Violence Reduction and Trafficking Offenses Section, who prosecuted the case.
Topic(s):
Drug Trafficking
Component(s):
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
Press Release Number:
22-470
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, December 20, 2022
Pennsylvania Man Sentenced For Actions During Jan. 6 Capitol Breach
Defendant Joined Crowd Pushing Against Officers in Rotunda Area
WASHINGTON — A Pennsylvania man was sentenced, yesterday, to two months incarceration and 24 months of supervised release for a felony charge stemming from his actions during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress that was in the process of ascertaining and counting the electoral votes related to the presidential election.
Kenneth Grayson, 53, of Bridgeville, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on September 20, 2022, in the District of Columbia, to interfering with a law enforcement officer during a civil disorder.
According to court documents, Grayson attended a rally at the Ellipse on Jan. 6, 2021, and then walked towards the Capitol, where he illegally entered the grounds. He then approached the Capitol Building. Law enforcement officers were attempting to prevent people from entering. Grayson entered the Capitol through the Senate Wing doors at approximately 2:20 p.m. and proceeded to the Crypt. He also entered the Rotunda area, where a mob of rioters began standing in front of a row of law enforcement officers. The mob began pushing against officers to gain access to the adjoining hall. Grayson joined the rear of this group that began pushing into the officers.
While he was inside the Capitol, Grayson live-streamed video on his Facebook account. He exited the Capitol at approximately 3:07 p.m.
Grayson was arrested on Jan. 26, 2021, in Bridgeville, Pennsylvania. In addition to the custodial sentence, he was ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution and a $100 special assessment.
This case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania.
The case was investigated by the FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office. Valuable assistance was provided by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the Metropolitan Police Department, and the U.S. Capitol Police.
In the 23 months since Jan. 6, 2021, close to 900 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including over 265 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
Topic(s):
Violent Crime
Component(s):
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
Press Release Number:
22-466
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, December 20, 2022
District Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Burglarizing Public School, Assaulting Police
WASHINGTON – Jason Stroman, 37, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced on Friday, December 16, 2022, to two and a half years in prison for a burglary at an elementary school in Southeast Washington, D.C., and for assaulting the police officers who arrested him, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Robert J. Contee III, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department. Stroman was convicted at a jury trial in August 2022 in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, on one count of Second Degree Burglary and two counts of Assault on a Police Officer.
According to the government’s evidence, Stroman entered C.W. Harris Elementary school early in the morning on Sunday, July 26, 2020, and disguised himself as a construction worker while walking through the school and compiling items – including various school supplies – into a large trash bin near an exit door. When he was discovered by DCPS and MPD officers, he fled on foot before being apprehended hiding nearby. After being placed under arrest, he spat directly onto MPD officers throughout the course of a 20 minute transport ride, telling the officers he hoped they took the coronavirus home to their families.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Graves and Chief Contee commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also expressed appreciation for the work of those who handled the cases at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Paralegal Specialist Tonya Queen, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin DeRiso, Kristin Sourbeer, and Lisa Lindhorst who investigated and indicted the matter, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Forgie and Teddy Dunn, who tried the case.
Topic(s):
Violent Crime
Component(s):
Press Release Number:
22-465
Updated December 20, 2022
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, December 20, 2022
Massachusetts Woman Arrested on Felony Charges For Actions During Jan. 6 Capitol Breach
Defendant Accused of Assaulting an Officer
WASHINGTON — A Massachusetts woman was arrested on felony charges, including assaulting a law enforcement officer, for her actions during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Her actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the presidential election.
Jacquelyn Starer, 68, of Ashland, Massachusetts, is charged by criminal complaint, filed in the District of Columbia, with civil disorder, a felony; assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers; entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds; disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds; and engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds. She was arrested today in Ashland. She is expected to make her initial appearance later today in the District of Massachusetts.
According to court documents, on Jan. 6, 2021, Starer illegally entered Capitol grounds. She went into the Capitol through the East Rotunda Doors. Video from body worn cameras worn by Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers shows Starer approach MPD officers and make contact with an MPD officer at approximately 2:59 p.m. Shortly thereafter, Starer struck an MPD Officer.
At approximately 3:06pm, surveillance video shows Starer exited the U.S. Capitol from the East Rotunda Doors. Additional reviews of open-source video also show Starer, on January 6, 2021, exiting the east side of the U.S. Capitol Building.
This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts.
The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Boston Office-Worcester Resident Agency and the FBI’s Washington Field Office, which identified Starer as #405 on its seeking information photos. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.
In the 23 months since Jan. 6, 2021, close to 900 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including over 270 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
A complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Attachment(s):
Download starer_complaint_r_0.pdf
Topic(s):
Violent Crime
Component(s):
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
Press Release Number:
22-464
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, December 20, 2022
Indiana Man Ordered to Pay Restitution and Serve Probation for Defacing the Washington Monument
Defendant Was Arrested With Paint Brush In-Hand
WASHINGTON – Shaun Deaton, 44, of Bloomington, Indiana, was sentenced today to one year of probation and was ordered to pay $3034.99 in restitution to the National Park Service for vandalizing the Washington Monument. On September 20, 2022, Deaton traveled to Washington, DC, and defaced the Washington Monument by painting it using red paint. He was arrested with the paint brush still in his hand and red paint on his clothes and body.
On September 22, 2022, Deaton was charged with destruction of federal property. On October 17, 2022, Deaton pleaded guilty to the misdemeanor.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves commended the work of the United States Park Police and the National Park Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Josh Gold.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, December 6, 2022
North Carolina Man Sentenced For Offenses Committed During Jan. 6 Capitol Breach
Defendant Encouraged Rioters to Battle Law Enforcement Officers
WASHINGTON – A North Carolina man was sentenced today to five months in prison for a felony charge related to his actions during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, which disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress that was in the process of ascertaining and counting the electoral votes related to the presidential election.
Lewis Easton Cantwell, 36, of Waynesville, North Carolina, pleaded guilty on March 24, 2022, in the District of Columbia, to obstructing, impeding, or interfering with law enforcement officers during the commission of civil disorder. According to court documents, on Jan. 6, Cantwell joined other rioters at the front of one of the entrances into the Capitol and used his cellphone to make several video recordings of individuals battling with law enforcement officers. During one of the recordings, he yelled for rioters to “get the door open.” At another point, he yelled that they needed “fresh patriots to the front.” At times, Cantwell can be seen participating in the mob rocking back and forth while others chanted “heave ho” as they pushed against police. He also helped propel a flagpole toward the Lower West Terrace tunnel, where a variety of objects were used to assault police. Cantwell recorded several videos while on restricted grounds of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. In one video, estimated to be taken between 2:15 p.m. and 2:40 p.m. Cantwell filmed himself as he said, “we’ve essentially stormed the Capitol building … we’re tired of the bullshit.” In another video from the same time and locations, Cantwell proclaimed, “liberty or death.” Cantwell remained inside the Lower West Terrace tunnel from his arrival at 2:40 p.m. until approximately 3:18 p.m., when police were able to push rioters out of the tunnel (albeit briefly). Cantwell remained on the Lower West Terrance until at least 4:18 p.m. When interviewed by the FBI, Cantwell claimed he went to the doors of the Capitol to “help” people. In a post to his Facebook page, Cantwell asserted he helped people and protesters; that there was no major property damage done; and that he treated people with love and respect.
In addition to the term of incarceration, upon release Cantwell will serve a 36-month term of supervised release and pay restitution in the amount of $2,000.
The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina.
The case was investigated by the FBI’s Charlotte Field Office Asheville Resident Agency and the FBI’s Washington Field Office, which identified Cantwell as #143 on its seeking information photos. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.
In the 22 months since Jan. 6, nearly 900 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 275 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
Topic(s):
Violent Crime
Component(s):
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
National Security Division (NSD)
USAO – District of Columbia
USAO – North Carolina, Western
Friday, October 28, 2022
West Virginia Man Pleads Guilty to Felony Charge For Actions During Jan. 6 Capitol Breach
Defendant Repeatedly Threw Projectile at North Door
WASHINGTON – A West Virginia mam pleaded guilty today to a felony charge for his actions during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.
John Thomas Gordon, 47, of Davis, West Virginia, pleaded guilty to interfering with law enforcement officers during a civil disorder.
According to court documents, on Jan. 6, 2021, Gordon was illegally on the Capitol grounds and took part in violence occurring shortly after 4 p.m. outside the North Door of the Capitol. Police officers were on the other side of the glass window in the door, attempting to secure the building. Shortly after officers sprayed chemical irritants to disperse the mob, Gordon yelled obscenities at officers behind the inner doors and began repeatedly throwing a heavy projectile at the inner doors. The crowd of rioters cheered as Gordon repeatedly threw the heavy projectile – at least four times. Gordon also kicked the door in attempts to destroy it to gain entry.
Gordon was arrested on July 8, 2022, in Martinsburg, West Virginia. He is to be sentenced on March 13, 2023. He faces a statutory maximum of five in prison and potential financial penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia.
The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Pittsburgh Field Office and its Martinsburg, West Virginia Resident Agency, and the FBI’s Washington Field Office, which identified Gordon as #218 on its seeking information photos. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.
In the 21 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 880 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including over 270 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
Attachment(s):
Download Gordon – Plea Agreement
Download Gordon – Statement of Offense
Topic(s):
Violent Crime
Component(s):
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
National Security Division (NSD)
USAO – District of Columbia
USAO – West Virginia, Northern
Press Release Number:
22-379
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, October 28, 2022
Virginia Man Pleads Guilty to Felony Charges For Actions During Jan. 6 Capitol Breach
Defendant Joined Mob in Destroying Media Equipment
WASHINGTON – A Virginia man pleaded guilty today to felony charges for destroying media equipment and other illegal conduct during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.
Joshua Dillon Haynes, 40, of Covington, Virginia, pleaded guilty in the District of Columbia to obstruction of an official proceeding and destruction of property.
According to court documents, on Jan. 6, 2021, at about 2:30 p.m., Haynes was illegally on restricted grounds, part of a mob that gathered on the Lower West Terrace of the Capitol, outside the East Rotunda Doors. About 20 minutes later, he followed a mob of rioters and entered the Capitol Building through the Senate Wing Door. He remained there until approximately 3:12 p.m., walking in areas including the Crypt and inside the office of a U.S. Senator.
While outside the building, Haynes assisted two other individuals in forcibly removing an air conditioning unit from a building outside the Capitol and dropped the unit to the ground.
At about 4:50 p.m., a large crowd of rioters made its way to and past a media staging area that was set up outside the northeast corner of the Capitol, on the grounds. Media members were forced to flee the area before they could recover their cameras and associated equipment. Numerous members of the crowd destroyed equipment, including cameras, tripods, and remote broadcasting equipment. At about 5 p.m., Haynes picked up and slammed down multiple pieces of equipment that belonged to media outlets.
Later Jan. 6, after the equipment at the media staging area was destroyed, Haynes sent an associate a text message saying, “broke lotsa stuff.” He then sent an image with the message, “We attacked the CNN reporters and the fake news and destroyed tens of thousands of dollars of their video and television equipment.” He also sent this message to the same associate, “I want to get busted for tearing up the nations capital and the fake news.”
Haynes was arrested on July 1, 2021, in Covington, Virginia. He is to be sentenced on Jan. 31, 2023. He faces a statutory maximum of 20 years in prison for obstruction of an official proceeding and up to five years in prison for destruction of property. The charges also carry potential financial penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia.
The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, which identified Haynes as #203 on its website seeking information photos. Valuable assistance was provided by the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Capitol Police.
In the 21 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 880 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including over 270 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
Attachment(s):
Download Haynes – Plea Agreement
Download Haynes – Statement of Offense
Topic(s):
Violent Crime
Component(s):
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
National Security Division (NSD)
USAO – District of Columbia
USAO – Virginia, Western
Press Release Number:
22-380
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, October 28, 2022
District Man Sentenced to 10-Year Prison Term for Armed Sexual Assault in 2006
Defendant Attacked Woman in Northwest Washington, DNA Linked Him to Crime
WASHINGTON – Landrell Lemont Jordan, Jr, 45, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for sexually assaulting a 26-year-old woman in January 2006 in Northwest Washington, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Robert J. Contee III, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Jordan pleaded guilty in March 2022, in the Superior Court for the District of Columbia, to one count of attempted first-degree sexual abuse while armed with aggravating circumstances. The plea, which contingent upon the Court’s approval, called for a sentence of 10 to 12 years. The Honorable Robert Okun accepted the plea and sentenced Jordan accordingly. Following his prison term, Jordan will be placed on five years of supervised release. He also must register as a sex offender for life and as a gun offender for seven years.
According to the government’s evidence, on Jan. 27, 2006, at approximately 1 a.m., the victim was walking home after waiting tables at a restaurant in Dupont Circle. Jordan walked up behind her in the area of Ninth and T Streets NW, brandished a gun, and forced her into an alley. He stole her cash and jewelry and then raped her at gunpoint.
Jordan was a stranger to the victim. The victim made an immediate report to police and obtained a sexual assault exam at an area hospital.
Jordan was developed as a suspect in this offense by MPD’s Cold Case Sexual Assault Unit in April 2020. Evidence in the case was tested in 2006 but did not yield a sufficient male DNA profile to identify the offender. Cold case detectives linked the defendant to the attack by new DNA testing.
When detectives identified Jordan as the perpetrator of this case in 2020, the investigation revealed that Jordan had been convicted of attempted robbery in 2012 in D.C. and two felony firearms offenses in 2013, one in D.C. and the other in Prince George’s County, Maryland.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Graves and Chief Contee commended the work of the detectives of the Metropolitan Police Department’s Sexual Assault Unit and Cold Case Sexual Assault Unit, and detectives and officers from the Third District. They also acknowledged the efforts of those handled the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Paralegal Specialist Cynthia Muhammad and Victim/Witness Advocate Tracey Hawkins.
Finally, they expressed appreciation for the work of former Assistant U.S. Attorney Angela Buckner, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kathleen Kern and Amy Zubrensky, who investigated and prosecuted the case.
Topic(s):
Violent Crime
Component(s):
USAO – District of Columbia
Press Release Number:
22-376
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, October 28, 2022
District Man Sentenced to 70 Months in Prison For Domestic Violence
Defendant Attacked Woman, a Child, and Dog in 2019 Outburst
WASHINGTON – Delonte Mitchell, 38, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today to 70 months in prison for attacking his then-girlfriend, a child, and a dog at a home in Southeast Washington, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Robert J. Contee III, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
Mitchell pleaded guilty in June 2022, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, to assault with significant bodily injury, second-degree cruelty to children, and cruelty to animals. The plea, which was contingent upon the Court’s approval, called for a sentence of 42 to 70 months. The Honorable Michael Ryan accepted the plea and sentenced Mitchell accordingly. After his prison term, Mitchell will be placed on three years of supervised release.
According to the government’s evidence, on Sept. 27, 2019, at approximately 3 a.m., Mitchell returned to a home he shared with a woman and child in the 2700 block of Douglas Road SE. The woman had told Mitchell that she wanted a break from their relationship. Enraged, Mitchell struck her several times in her face with his fists, causing one of her eyes to swell shut. He also struck the child in the face and body. He then picked up the woman’s dog and threw the dog in the air, towards the ceiling. The dog fell to the floor and died from its injuries.
Mitchell was apprehended in Maryland on Nov. 21, 2019. He was brought to the District of Columbia in March 2020, and he has been in custody ever since.
In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Graves and Chief Contee commended the work of the Metropolitan Police Department, which investigated the case. They also expressed appreciation for the assistance provided by the Washington Humane Society and the Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force. They acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Kenechukwu Okocha, Deputy Chief of the Sex Offense and Domestic Violence Section, Paralegal Specialist Tiffany Jones and Victim/Witness Advocate Lu Lan.
Finally, they expressed appreciation for the work of Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Galloway, Eric Nguyen, and Eliot Folsom, who investigated and prosecuted the case.
Topic(s):
Violent Crime
Component(s):
USAO – District of Columbia
Press Release Number:
22-377
Department of Justice
U.S. Attorney’s Office
District of Columbia
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, January 8, 2021
Alabama Man Charged With Possession of Eleven Molotov Cocktails Found Near Protest at U.S. Capitol
Authorities Also Found One Assault Rifle and Three Handguns
Department of Justice Office of Public Affairs
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, October 28, 2022
Former U.S. Capitol Police Officer Found Guilty of Obstruction Charge Involving Investigation of Jan. 6 Capitol Breach
WASHINGTON — A former U.S. Capitol Police officer was found guilty by a jury today of a federal charge of obstruction of justice stemming from his communications with a rioter and his actions in the aftermath of the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, which disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress that was in the process of ascertaining and counting the electoral votes related to the presidential election.
Michael A. Riley, 51, was found guilty of one count of obstruction. The verdict followed a trial in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. The jury was unable to reach a verdict on a second count, ending in a mistrial on that charge. No sentencing date was set.
According to the government’s evidence at trial, Riley, who has more than 25 years of law enforcement experience, was at work with a K-9 unit on Jan. 6, 2021. Although he was not on duty inside the Capitol Building itself during the attack, he was aware of what was taking place. That day, he responded to reports of an explosive device near the Capitol complex.
The next day, Jan. 7, 2021, Riley learned that a Facebook friend had posted about being at and inside the Capitol on Jan. 6. Rather than forward the information to the Capitol Police or FBI, Riley sent the rioter a private Facebook message with advice on how to avoid being caught. He wrote, “im a capitol police officer who agrees with your political stance. Take down the part about being in the building they are currently investigating and everyone who was in the building is going to charged. Just looking out!”
Riley then continued to exchange hundreds of friendly private Facebook messages with the rioter, but when he learned that the rioter had told the FBI about being in touch with a Capitol Police officer, Riley deleted all of those messages from his account. Riley then came up with a cover story and sent a new message to the rioter, pretending that he had only later learned that the rioter had smoked weed inside the Capitol and pretending that he was scolding the rioter for his conduct.
The jury was unable to reach a verdict on the charge related to Riley’s communication with the rioter on Jan. 7. It found him guilty of obstruction related to the conduct involving the cover-up.
The charge of obstruction of justice carries a statutory maximum of 20 years. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, with valuable assistance provided by the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office and the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Capitol Police.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mary L. Dohrmann and Anne P. McNamara of the Fraud, Public Corruption, and Civil Rights Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. Valuable assistance was provided by Assistant U.S. Attorney Molly Gaston, Paralegal Specialist Mariela Andrade, and Shannon Dotson of the Litigation Technology Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Friday, January 8, 2021
Man Arrested for Illegally Entering Office of Speaker of the House
Richard Barnett, 60, of Gravette, Arkansas was arrested today in Bentonville, Arkansas on multiple criminal charges related to his alleged unlawful activities earlier this week at the U.S. Capitol Building where he was photographed with his feet up on a desk in the Speaker of the House of Representatives’ office.
Barnett is scheduled to make his initial appearance in federal court on Tuesday. He will ultimately be extradited to Washington, D.C.
“The shocking images of Mr. Barnett with his boots up on a desk in the Speaker of the House’s office on Wednesday was repulsive,” said Jeffrey A. Rosen, Acting Attorney General of the United States. “Those who are proven to have committed criminal acts during the storming of the Capitol will face justice.”
According to court documents, U.S. Capitol Police learned that an individual had entered the restricted office area of the Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi and was photographed with his feet propped up on furniture. Those photos were circulated on numerous news media platforms which identified the individual as Barnett. A search of law enforcement databases confirmed that the individual in the news photographs did in fact appear to be Barnett.
“This case is just one in a number that demonstrate the brazen acts that were committed at the Capitol on Wednesday,” said Michael Sherwin, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia. “My Office is committed to prosecuting all individuals who participated in these abhorrent acts to the fullest extent of the law.”
“The U.S. Capitol is one of the most iconic buildings in our country and a symbol of the Constitution and people we have sworn to protect, and its destruction will not be tolerated,” said Steven M. D’Antuono, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office. “This arrest demonstrates to all individuals involved in January 6 incursion into the U.S. Capitol that the FBI will find you and hold you accountable for your crimes, no matter your location. We thank the FBI Little Rock Field Office for their quick assistance in bringing this perpetrator to justice.”
Barnett is charged with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority; violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds; and theft of public money, property, or records. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of one year in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Capitol Police and the FBI’s Washington Field Office, with the assistance of the Justice Department’s National Security Division and the FBI’s Little Rock Field Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole McClain of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Component(s): Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)Office of the Attorney GeneralUSAO – District of ColumbiaPress Release Number: 21-25
WASHINGTON— Today, Acting U.S. Attorney Michael Sherwin for the District of Columbia announced charges against an Alabama man that include one count of unlawful possession of a destructive device, and one count of carrying a pistol without a license.
Lonnie Leroy Coffman, 70, of Falkville, Alabama, was arrested yesterday and charged in a criminal complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. Coffman remains in custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for Tuesday, January 12.
As alleged in the Complaint, on January 6, U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) officers responded to reports of possible explosive devices in the area around the United States Capitol. In the course of conducting a protective sweep of the area, officers observed the handle of what appeared to be a firearm on the front right passenger seat of a red pickup truck with Alabama tags. A law enforcement database check of the vehicle registration revealed that the vehicle was registered to Lonnie L. Coffman with a home address in Falkville, Alabama. USCP Bomb Squad members subsequently searched the vehicle and secured one black handgun, one M4 Carbine assault rifle along with rifle magazines loaded with ammunition, and components for the construction of eleven “Molotov Cocktails” in the form of mason jars filled with ignitable substances, rags, and lighters.
Later that evening, Coffman was stopped in the vicinity of his truck when he attempted to return to his vehicle. Coffman was subsequently searched and found to have on his person a 9mm Smith & Wesson handgun, a 22-caliber derringer style handgun, and two sets of vehicle keys that matched the truck. When asked, Coffman told officers that the mason jars contained melted Styrofoam and gasoline. ATF advised that the combination of melted Styrofoam and gasoline is an explosive mixture that has the effect of napalm because, when detonated, the substance causes the flammable liquid to better stick to objects that it hits.
Coffman is charged with one count of unlawful possession of a destructive device, which carries a maximum prison term of up to 10 years, and one count of carrying a pistol without a license under D.C. law, which carries a maximum prison term of up to 5 years.
The charges contained in the complaint are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The case is being prosecuted by the Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason B.A. McCullough and Michael Friedman of the District of Columbia United States Attorney’s Office, and Trial Attorney Taryn Meeks of the National Security Division of the Department of Justice. The case is being investigated by the U.S. Capitol Police Department with assistance from the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The ATF and FBI continue to urge the public to report suspected use of explosive devices, or violent, destructive acts associated with the recent unrest. Anyone with information can call 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477), email ATFTips@atf.gov or submit information anonymously via ReportIt.com.
The FBI is looking for individuals who may have incited or promoted violence of any kind. Anyone with digital material or tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or submit images or videos at fbi.gov/USCapitol.
Topic(s):
National Security
To request a public document, contact the USCP Reports Processing Section at (202) 228-4585.
As of March 12, 2020, access to Capitol Complex buildings is limited to Members of Congress, staff, credentialed press and official business visitors (with appointments). Therefore, the USCP Reports Processing Section has temporarily suspended receiving in-person public document requests. All requests for public documents will be handled electronically. Please use the USCP Report Request Form, and email the completed form to RPS@uscp.gov.
Arrest Summary Report
December 31, 2020 – January 6, 2021
To request a public document, contact the USCP Reports Processing Section:
(202) 593-4099
You may also contact the USCP Public Information Office with questions: (202) 224-1677
TRAFFIC – DUI ALCOHOL OR DRUGS
01/03/2021 04:51 210103000003
ADDITIONAL CHARGES: TRAFFIC- PERMIT – OPERATING AFTER SUSPENSION
R/O observed a vehicle parked on the sidewalk at the intersection of First and D Streets, NE. Upon
approach, R/O observed the Suspect standing next to the driver’s side door of the vehicle. While
speaking with the Suspect, R/O observed signs of impairment. A WALES/NCIC check of the Suspect’s
District of Columbia license revealed their permit was suspended. SFSTs were conducted and, due to
numerous signs of impairment, the Suspect was placed under arrest and transported to USCP
Headquarters for processing.
FUGITIVE FROM JUSTICE
01/02/2021 18:56 210102000002
R/O responded to Second Street and Independence Avenue, SE, for a subject requesting assistance. A
WALES/NCIC check of the Suspect’s identification revealed an active warrant through the
Fredericksburg Police Department. The Suspect was placed under arrest and transported to USCP
Headquarters for processing.
ARREST CHARGE
Date Time CFN#
Crime Summary
R/O = Reporting/Responding Officer CIS = Criminal Investigations Section
SFST = Standardized Field Sobriety Test CSS = Crime Scene Search
W = Witness C = Complainant
S = Suspect LPR = License Plate Reader
SA = Special Agent CFN = Capitol File Number
Unless otherwise noted, Defendants placed under arrest are transported to
USCP Headquarters, 119 D Street, NE, for processing.
2
ASSAULT-SIMPLE – MISD
01/04/2021 11:06 210104000004
R/O was on post at Washington Avenue and First Street, SW, when he observed two individuals on the
scaffolding above arguing and holding on to each other. CIS responded to the scene. The Suspect
admitted to punching and kicking the Complainant several times. The Suspect was placed under arrest
and transported to USCP Headquarters for processing.
UNLAWFUL ENTRY – MISD
01/04/2021 12:45 210104000005
ADDITIONAL CHARGE: RESISTING ARREST
R/O was on post at the Northwest Door of the Cannon House Office Building when an individual
attempted to gain entry. R/O advised the Suspect that access to the building was prohibited to the
general public due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The Suspect refused to leave. While
attempting to handcuff the Suspect, they became limp and refused to place their hands behind their
back. The Suspect was placed under arrest and transported to USCP Headquarters for processing.
TRAFFIC – DUI ALCOHOL OR DRUGS
01/05/2021 21:06 210105000010
ADDITIONAL CHARGES: POSSESSION OF OPEN CONTAINER OF ALCOHOL; DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTYLESS THAN $1000
R/O responded to a traffic accident at First Street and Maryland Avenue, SW, where the Suspect struck
a barrier. Upon approaching the vehicle, R/O-2 observed an open container of alcohol in the front
passenger seat. SFSTs were conducted and, due to numerous signs of impairment, the Suspect was
placed under arrest and transported to USCP Headquarters for processing
1DCAC 