Capitol Rioters Charged After Siege

Nationwide manhunt underway for individuals that launched a domestic terror attack on the U.S. capitol. Many have been arrested. 

By Annika Henthorn
News Reporter

On January 6, 2021, the United States Capitol was ambushed. Thousands of disturbing videos and photographs emerged as the events unfolded, leaving viewers wondering, how many of those who took part in such a tragic day were prosecuted?

According to the BBC, thus far only 70 people have been charged. However, officials are saying that the misdemeanor charges are simply the beginning while they look into felony cases linked to conspiracy and sedition. Steven D’Antuono, the head of the FBI's Washington field office, has expressed his gratitude for the public’s help, sending in over 100,000 videos and photos to help identify those who partook in the riot. The FBI is currently trying to find those involved in plotting the riot and will be charged with serious seditious activity, says the Justice Department officials. This charge can mean up to 20 years in prison. US Attorneys in Ohio, Minnesota, Kentucky, and other states have vowed to charge anyone who travelled from their specific place to participate in the riot. 

One of the most notorious rioters, well-known for his fur hat and horns, was identified and charged, stated by BBC. Jake Chansely is a follower of the QAnon conspiracy theory, in which he believes that Trump and the military have a secret allegiance to annihilate Satan-worshipping pedophiles in the Democratic party and those in Hollywood. He also believes that COVID-19 is a hoax. These driving beliefs have led him to participate in the riots and then later charged with disorderly conduct and violent entry. His mother has told ABC that he has not eaten in a week because the detention center he has been placed in refuses to serve him organic food. Trump has continued to justify these conspiracy theorists by claiming they are just “people who love our country.”

Richard Barnett was another infamous rioter seen in Nancy Pelosi’s office according to BBC. The most famous image of him was when he was seen reclined in her chair with his feet on the desk. He was also seen outside with a picture of confidential documents he took from her desk. He has been charged with unlawful entry, disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds, and theft of public money, property, or records. Barnett is 60 years old and from Arkansas. He is heavily involved with groups that support gun rights and was at a “Stop the Steal” protest, which is based on the claim of election fraud. 

Kevin Seefried, the man carrying the confederate flag in the capitol building, has finally been identified and charged. A colleague of his identified him, and Seefried eventually turned himself in, admitting that he usually keeps the flag outside his home in Laurel, Delaware. However, he did not attend the riot alone. His son, Hunter Seefried, also took part in the destruction that occurred at the capitol. He is accused of being one of the first to enter the capitol by breaking a window at around 2:13 PM, according to The Washington Post. 

The FBI says it can be for a multitude of reasons. One being that he could run in a small circle, and those in it might be unaware of the events that unfolded and his participation in them. Another is that those that do know him might not give him away or fess up. 
The riot has confirmed five deaths according to The Washington Post, and is one of the FBI’s biggest undertakings. If you or someone you know has more information on those who attended the riot, please visit this link to help. https://tips.fbi.gov/digitalmedia/aad18481a3e8f02

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