In a letter to Democratic colleagues, Pelosi said the House will also put forth supplemental spending to boost security at the Capitol.

Can a 9/11-style commission examine Capitol riots?

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump's </a>impeachment defence lawyers argued on Friday that his trial is "act of political vengeance" and he bears no responsibility for an attack on US Capitol on the day of the certification of President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden's </a>election win.&nbsp;

His lawyers argued that his comments, including an aggressive speech asking his supporters to "fight like hell" were protected by the First Amendment of the country's constitution.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-impeachment-defence-team-to-move-impeachment-trial-to-speedy-end-english-news-363275/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"To claim that the president in any way wished, desired or encouraged lawless or violent behaviour is a preposterous and monstrous lie," Michael van der Veen, one of Trump's lawyers said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-impeachment-trial-defense-denounces-trial-as-act-of-political-vengeance-363266">Trump impeachment trial: Defense denounces trial as 'act of political vengeance'</a>

He also said that the impeachment was an "act of political vengeance" and the Senate should reject it "promptly" and "decisively".&nbsp;

The arguments followed two days of evidence presented by the Democratic impeachment managers to substantiate their claim that the former US president incited his supporters to storm the US Capitol.&nbsp;

The Democrats revealed the never-seen-before video footage of the day US Capitol in which armed rioters were seen wildly looking for Democrats' Nancy Pelosi and former Vice President Mike Pence, two political leaders who were supposed to carry out important duties to certify Biden's win.&nbsp;

In the footage, members of the Congress were seen running for their lives, including Pence along with his family, and some even narrowly escaping the possible attack from the protesters.

Donald Trump's impeachment defence lawyers argued on Friday that his trial is "act of political vengeance" and he bears no responsibility for an attack on US Capitol on the day of the certification of President Joe Biden's election win.

Donald Trump's impeachment defence lawyers argued on Friday that his trial is "act of political vengeance" and he bears no responsibility for an attack on US Capitol on the day of the certification of President Joe Biden's election win. His lawyers argued that his comments, including an aggressive speech asking his supporters to "fight like hell" were protected by the First Amendment of the country's constitution. Watch | "To claim that the president in any way wished, desired or encouraged lawless or violent behaviour is a preposterous and monstrous lie," Michael van der Veen, one of Trump's lawyers said. Also read | Trump impeachment trial: Defense denounces trial as 'act of political vengeance' He also said that the impeachment was an "act of political vengeance" and the Senate should reject it "promptly" and "decisively". The arguments followed two days of evidence presented by the Democratic impeachment managers to substantiate their claim that the former US president incited his supporters to storm the US Capitol. The Democrats revealed the never-seen-before video footage of the day US Capitol in which armed rioters were seen wildly looking for Democrats' Nancy Pelosi and former Vice President Mike Pence, two political leaders who were supposed to carry out important duties to certify Biden's win. In the footage, members of the Congress were seen running for their lives, including Pence along with his family, and some even narrowly escaping the possible attack from the protesters.

Defence says Trump bears no responsibility for US Capitol attack as impeachment trial set to conclude

While the security forces at the US Capitol were busy trying to protect the building and the senators from the pro-Trump rioters, the secret service bodyguards had a bigger worry — protecting the 'football'.

During the Capitol riots, that took place on January 06, the Trump supporters had planned to attack the then-Vice President Mike Pence too. While their sole purpose was to injure the man who was declaring Joe Biden as the next President, there's a chance they could have got control of the codes of the nuclear weapons.

The dramatic and violence-filled footage from January 06 riots show how Mike Pence escaped the rioters from 30 metres. It also shows how an air force officer was carrying a large briefcase with nuclear launch codes, that could have been taken by the rioters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-impeachment-defence-team-to-move-impeachment-trial-to-speedy-end-english-news-363275">WATCH|</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-impeachment-defence-team-to-move-impeachment-trial-to-speedy-end-english-news-363275/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"If the mob had seized Pence’s nuclear football, they may not have been able to order an actual launch but the public may not have known that," said Tom Collina, director of policy at the Ploughshares Fund disarmament advocacy group told a media house. "Parading the nuclear button around would have caused widespread panic and chaos as authorities scrambled to respond."

The briefcase, if seized by Trump's mob, would have given access to the rioters to the codes that are used to identify the vice-president and take his orders and also the encrypted communications equipment that is used to make the call to the National Military Command Centre in the Pentagon.

While the footage shown has increased questions about whether or not such codes and their control should be provided to one man, many also heaved a sigh of relief that the codes were not passed on to the rioters by the disgraced former US President Donald Trump himself. &nbsp;

While the security forces at the US Capitol were busy trying to protect the building and the senators from the pro-Trump rioters, the secret service bodyguards had a bigger worry — protecting the 'football'.

While the security forces at the US Capitol were busy trying to protect the building and the senators from the pro-Trump rioters, the secret service bodyguards had a bigger worry — protecting the 'football'. During the Capitol riots, that took place on January 06, the Trump supporters had planned to attack the then-Vice President Mike Pence too. While their sole purpose was to injure the man who was declaring Joe Biden as the next President, there's a chance they could have got control of the codes of the nuclear weapons. The dramatic and violence-filled footage from January 06 riots show how Mike Pence escaped the rioters from 30 metres. It also shows how an air force officer was carrying a large briefcase with nuclear launch codes, that could have been taken by the rioters. WATCH| "If the mob had seized Pence’s nuclear football, they may not have been able to order an actual launch but the public may not have known that," said Tom Collina, director of policy at the Ploughshares Fund disarmament advocacy group told a media house. "Parading the nuclear button around would have caused widespread panic and chaos as authorities scrambled to respond." The briefcase, if seized by Trump's mob, would have given access to the rioters to the codes that are used to identify the vice-president and take his orders and also the encrypted communications equipment that is used to make the call to the National Military Command Centre in the Pentagon. While the footage shown has increased questions about whether or not such codes and their control should be provided to one man, many also heaved a sigh of relief that the codes were not passed on to the rioters by the disgraced former US President Donald Trump himself.

US 'football' was at danger during Capitol riots, footage reveals

WASHINGTON — Among the harrowing images presented during the impeachment trial of former President Donald Trump, one video stood out: a police officer sprinting toward a United States senator to warn of the angry mob nearby.

The senator, Mitt Romney, is shown turning on his heels and fleeing for safety.

“I don’t think my family or my wife understood that I was as close as I might have been to real danger,” Romney told reporters Thursday, one day after the video showed Eugene Goodman, a Capitol Police officer already known for his bravery, aiding him. “They were surprised and very, very appreciative of Officer Goodman, in his being there and directing me back to safety.”

For Goodman, it was the second time a video went viral displaying actions widely credited with saving members of Congress. The first, which showed him single-handedly luring a mob away from the entrance of the Senate toward an area with reinforcements, turned him into a hero. The second has added to his lore.

Both have catapulted Goodman — a former Army infantryman who served in one of the most dangerous parts of Iraq during one of the most lethal times of the war — to fame he never sought.

On Wednesday, after watching the videos that showed Goodman directing Romney to safety, Romney could be seen talking with Goodman. Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, later walked over and fist-bumped Goodman.

On Thursday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi singled out Goodman for his courage when she introduced legislation to award the Capitol Police and other law enforcement personnel who responded on Jan. 6 with the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest honor of Congress. On Jan. 20, Goodman was given the task of escorting Vice President Kamala Harris at the inauguration of President Joe Biden.

Veterans who served alongside Goodman in the 101st Airborne Division some 15 years ago in Iraq say that the officer, known then as “Goody,” never craved accolades.

“I saw him come out in front of the vice president and he immediately ducked to the right,” said Mark Belda, who served with Goodman in Iraq. “I thought that’s definitely Goody.”

When he closely watched the first video, Belda said, he saw attributes he recognized in Goodman from Iraq. “He wasn’t prone to anger. As an infantryman, your job is to be violent but it was never his first reaction to use the stick before you use the carrot.”

In Iraq, Goodman was a sergeant and a leader of a 10-man rifle squad who assumed new responsibilities soon after his unit arrived in 2005.

His “Hardrock Company” operated in the Sunni triangle area near Baghdad in central Iraq, where U.S. troops engaged in some of the fiercest combat of the war.

The platoons were required to conduct multiple combat patrols each day to identify explosives before they were detonated, work that often resulted in various injuries, according to Lt. Col. Jeff Farmer, who served alongside Goodman in the company.

“The front squad leader was critical, someone willing to take on this risk and lead his squad day in and day out,” Farmer said.

That leader was Goodman.

“I cannot recall exactly how many dismounted patrols Goody led as a point man in the company, but I can say that it was likely in the hundreds, making him the go-to guy quite frankly when others needed that reassurance that things were going to be OK,” Farmer said.

Goodman was a quiet professional, his superiors said, serious and focused on his missions but also quick with a joke to ease tension in the ranks, they said. His fellow soldiers could count on him to do “what needed to be done,” said John Greis, who served as his platoon sergeant in Iraq. “That’s coolness under pressure.”

Farmer said he was not surprised when he saw the video of Goodman facing the angry mob in the Capitol.

“Calm, cool, and collected under fire, that’s just Goody,” Farmer said. “I trusted my life with him, and still would to this day.”

Goodman is now in uncomfortable territory, according to his fellow veterans. He has not made public comments and did not return multiple requests for interviews, including a handwritten note at his apartment near District Heights, Maryland.

A neighbor said Goodman had not returned to his apartment in the days after the attack at the Capitol, and had advised those in his apartment building not to speak to the news media.

“He doesn’t want to be in the center of the attention. He just wants to duck to the side and you all can do what you want to do,” said Belda, Goodman’s former first sergeant. “Let me do my job and you guys do what you want to do, just leave me alone.”

Charles H. Ramsey, who led police departments in Washington and Philadelphia, said the actions of Goodman and others who responded to the violence on Jan. 6 were even more impressive since “they were put in a terrible position” by senior officials who failed to act on intelligence indicating that violent groups intended to gather in Washington.

“And yet, they responded in a very heroic way. They made the most out of it. Without them this would have been a tragedy beyond belief,” Ramsey said. “If Mitt Romney had continued down that hall and encountered those rioters, or those insurgents, there’s no doubt in my mind he probably would have been taken.”

But he also said the newfound fame could be embarrassing for a police officer who never wished for it.

“He’s getting a lot of the attention, and deservedly so, but he also knows he wasn’t the only person there that day,” Ramsey said. “He is a hero, there is no question about that. But I also think it’s awkward to be in that position.”

When Belda saw the footage of Goodman facing the mob at the Capitol, it reminded him of the feeling he had when he was outnumbered while fighting outside a helicopter that had just been shot down in Mogadishu, Somalia, during the 1993 battle known as Black Hawk Down.

“I know that feeling, when you feel like you’re outnumbered and you feel like you don’t know what’s going to happen next,” Belda said. “But you’ve got to do your job.” Only hours after the attack at the Capitol, Belda reached out to Goodman, but he kept it short. He figured he must have been overwhelmed.

“I just simply sent him a message and said, ‘Dude, I know you don’t want to talk about it,’” Belda said. “But I’m proud of you.” Goodman responded by saying he was grateful for the message.

Belda said he looked forward to telling him soon in person.

WASHINGTON — Among the harrowing images presented during the impeachment trial of former President Donald Trump, one video stood out: a police officer sprinting toward a United States senator to warn of the angry mob nearby.

WASHINGTON — Among the harrowing images presented during the impeachment trial of former President Donald Trump, one video stood out: a police officer sprinting toward a United States senator to warn of the angry mob nearby. The senator, Mitt Romney, is shown turning on his heels and fleeing for safety. “I don’t think my family or my wife understood that I was as close as I might have been to real danger,” Romney told reporters Thursday, one day after the video showed Eugene Goodman, a Capitol Police officer already known for his bravery, aiding him. “They were surprised and very, very appreciative of Officer Goodman, in his being there and directing me back to safety.” For Goodman, it was the second time a video went viral displaying actions widely credited with saving members of Congress. The first, which showed him single-handedly luring a mob away from the entrance of the Senate toward an area with reinforcements, turned him into a hero. The second has added to his lore. Both have catapulted Goodman — a former Army infantryman who served in one of the most dangerous parts of Iraq during one of the most lethal times of the war — to fame he never sought. On Wednesday, after watching the videos that showed Goodman directing Romney to safety, Romney could be seen talking with Goodman. Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, later walked over and fist-bumped Goodman. On Thursday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi singled out Goodman for his courage when she introduced legislation to award the Capitol Police and other law enforcement personnel who responded on Jan. 6 with the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest honor of Congress. On Jan. 20, Goodman was given the task of escorting Vice President Kamala Harris at the inauguration of President Joe Biden. Veterans who served alongside Goodman in the 101st Airborne Division some 15 years ago in Iraq say that the officer, known then as “Goody,” never craved accolades. “I saw him come out in front of the vice president and he immediately ducked to the right,” said Mark Belda, who served with Goodman in Iraq. “I thought that’s definitely Goody.” When he closely watched the first video, Belda said, he saw attributes he recognized in Goodman from Iraq. “He wasn’t prone to anger. As an infantryman, your job is to be violent but it was never his first reaction to use the stick before you use the carrot.” In Iraq, Goodman was a sergeant and a leader of a 10-man rifle squad who assumed new responsibilities soon after his unit arrived in 2005. His “Hardrock Company” operated in the Sunni triangle area near Baghdad in central Iraq, where U.S. troops engaged in some of the fiercest combat of the war. The platoons were required to conduct multiple combat patrols each day to identify explosives before they were detonated, work that often resulted in various injuries, according to Lt. Col. Jeff Farmer, who served alongside Goodman in the company. “The front squad leader was critical, someone willing to take on this risk and lead his squad day in and day out,” Farmer said. That leader was Goodman. “I cannot recall exactly how many dismounted patrols Goody led as a point man in the company, but I can say that it was likely in the hundreds, making him the go-to guy quite frankly when others needed that reassurance that things were going to be OK,” Farmer said. Goodman was a quiet professional, his superiors said, serious and focused on his missions but also quick with a joke to ease tension in the ranks, they said. His fellow soldiers could count on him to do “what needed to be done,” said John Greis, who served as his platoon sergeant in Iraq. “That’s coolness under pressure.” Farmer said he was not surprised when he saw the video of Goodman facing the angry mob in the Capitol. “Calm, cool, and collected under fire, that’s just Goody,” Farmer said. “I trusted my life with him, and still would to this day.” Goodman is now in uncomfortable territory, according to his fellow veterans. He has not made public comments and did not return multiple requests for interviews, including a handwritten note at his apartment near District Heights, Maryland. A neighbor said Goodman had not returned to his apartment in the days after the attack at the Capitol, and had advised those in his apartment building not to speak to the news media. “He doesn’t want to be in the center of the attention. He just wants to duck to the side and you all can do what you want to do,” said Belda, Goodman’s former first sergeant. “Let me do my job and you guys do what you want to do, just leave me alone.” Charles H. Ramsey, who led police departments in Washington and Philadelphia, said the actions of Goodman and others who responded to the violence on Jan. 6 were even more impressive since “they were put in a terrible position” by senior officials who failed to act on intelligence indicating that violent groups intended to gather in Washington. “And yet, they responded in a very heroic way. They made the most out of it. Without them this would have been a tragedy beyond belief,” Ramsey said. “If Mitt Romney had continued down that hall and encountered those rioters, or those insurgents, there’s no doubt in my mind he probably would have been taken.” But he also said the newfound fame could be embarrassing for a police officer who never wished for it. “He’s getting a lot of the attention, and deservedly so, but he also knows he wasn’t the only person there that day,” Ramsey said. “He is a hero, there is no question about that. But I also think it’s awkward to be in that position.” When Belda saw the footage of Goodman facing the mob at the Capitol, it reminded him of the feeling he had when he was outnumbered while fighting outside a helicopter that had just been shot down in Mogadishu, Somalia, during the 1993 battle known as Black Hawk Down. “I know that feeling, when you feel like you’re outnumbered and you feel like you don’t know what’s going to happen next,” Belda said. “But you’ve got to do your job.” Only hours after the attack at the Capitol, Belda reached out to Goodman, but he kept it short. He figured he must have been overwhelmed. “I just simply sent him a message and said, ‘Dude, I know you don’t want to talk about it,’” Belda said. “But I’m proud of you.” Goodman responded by saying he was grateful for the message. Belda said he looked forward to telling him soon in person.

Videos turn Eugene Goodman into a reluctant hero in the Capitol attack

Did The Simpsons forecast US Capitol riots? More predictions inside!

After the Capitol riots, several images were shared on the internet, which included memes too. There were also investigations that were initiated, and shockingly those also included memes.

America's top security and law enforcement agency, the FBI, filed an affidavit this week against the Massachusetts man Brian McCreary who has been accused of inciting violence and disruption in the US Capitol at the beginning of January 2021.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-53-years-wallet-lost-in-antarctica-reaches-91-year-old-owner-361761" hreflang="en">After 53 years, wallet lost in Antarctica reaches 91-year-old owner</a>

While the charges and the affidavit were expected, what came as a surprise — or rather a shock — was that the picture they included in this affidavit was one of the viral pictures available on the internet, which has been circulating as a meme.

In the document submitted by the FBI, there is a picture hanging on the wall behind the 33-year-old McCreary. That wall hanging has an image of a naked man photoshopped into the picture frame.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I’ve studied extremism for 15 years, I’ve reviewed mostly every court record for decades. I can honestly say very little surprises me. That said, I have absolutely no idea what to say about the Internet image the FBI used in a criminal complaint of the picture hanging on the wall <a href="https://t.co/nznszFmif7">pic.twitter.com/nznszFmif7</a>
— Seamus Hughes (@SeamusHughes) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeamusHughes/status/1357459933818720263?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

FBI, however, forgot to mention that the image was used as a meme, or probably failed to notice it. The investigators have presented that image on the fourth page of the document as evidence of that man's violent behaviour in the Capitol that day.

The fully nude man in the photo had gained popularity on the internet through memes and has often been dubbed as 'Wood Sitting On a Bed'. Several local reports have claimed that the man in the frame is Wardy Joubert III who passed away of a heart attack in 2016.&nbsp;

After the Capitol riots, several images were shared on the internet, which included memes too. There were also investigations that were initiated, and shockingly those also included memes.

After the Capitol riots, several images were shared on the internet, which included memes too. There were also investigations that were initiated, and shockingly those also included memes. America's top security and law enforcement agency, the FBI, filed an affidavit this week against the Massachusetts man Brian McCreary who has been accused of inciting violence and disruption in the US Capitol at the beginning of January 2021. Also read| After 53 years, wallet lost in Antarctica reaches 91-year-old owner While the charges and the affidavit were expected, what came as a surprise — or rather a shock — was that the picture they included in this affidavit was one of the viral pictures available on the internet, which has been circulating as a meme. In the document submitted by the FBI, there is a picture hanging on the wall behind the 33-year-old McCreary. That wall hanging has an image of a naked man photoshopped into the picture frame. I’ve studied extremism for 15 years, I’ve reviewed mostly every court record for decades. I can honestly say very little surprises me. That said, I have absolutely no idea what to say about the Internet image the FBI used in a criminal complaint of the picture hanging on the wall pic.twitter.com/nznszFmif7 — Seamus Hughes (@SeamusHughes) February 4, 2021 × FBI, however, forgot to mention that the image was used as a meme, or probably failed to notice it. The investigators have presented that image on the fourth page of the document as evidence of that man's violent behaviour in the Capitol that day. The fully nude man in the photo had gained popularity on the internet through memes and has often been dubbed as 'Wood Sitting On a Bed'. Several local reports have claimed that the man in the frame is Wardy Joubert III who passed away of a heart attack in 2016.

FBI submits affidavit against Capitol riot accused with a meme image of nude man

The Justice Department continued building cases Wednesday against people accused of storming the Capitol, arresting a leader of the far-right group the Proud Boys and charging two men with conspiracy in an effort to block certification of President Joe Biden’s victory in the election.

Ethan Nordean, self-described “sergeant of arms” of the Seattle chapter of the Proud Boys, was arrested Wednesday morning, federal prosecutors said. He had been under investigation for more than a week after prosecutors named him in court papers as a chief organizer of a mob of about 100 other members of the group that marched through Washington on Jan. 6, ending at the Capitol building.

Separately, Nicholas DeCarlo, a 30-year-old Texas man, and Nicholas Ochs, a founder of Hawaii’s chapter of the Proud Boys, were charged with conspiring with one another and unnamed co-conspirators to stop the certification of Biden’s Electoral College win as part of last month’s riot at the Capitol, according to the indictment.

The case against DeCarlo and Ochs was announced by John Demers, head of the Justice Department’s national security division, the U.S. attorney in Washington and the FBI’s Washington field office.

Their indictments highlighted the government’s effort to bring more serious charges against some of the scores of people who were initially charged with lesser crimes after the attack. The two men had earlier been charged with unlawful entry and obstructing an official proceeding.

DeCarlo and Ochs were charged in an indictment with conspiring with others to create a plan to stop Congress, raising money online to fund travel to Washington to carry out their plan, crossing state lines to obstruct Congress and forcibly storming the Capitol building.

Combined with the separate charges against Nordean, the indictment against Ochs and DeCarlo underscored the increasingly prominent role that the Proud Boys are accused of playing in the assault.

Leaders of the Proud Boys have sought to distance themselves from the riots, even as federal investigators scrutinize them as they seek to determine the full scope of the group’s involvement.

In the indictment against DeCarlo and Ochs, prosecutors said the men carved the words “MURDER THE MEDIA” into the Capitol’s Memorial Door.

The case is part of a strike force created by Michael Sherwin, the U.S. attorney in Washington, to examine violent actions that targeted members of the news media, the Justice Department said. Sherwin said at a recent news conference that it was “the height of hypocrisy” to attack journalists while invoking the First Amendment to justify illegally entering the Capitol.

DeCarlo was also seen in photos taken inside the Capitol during the riots wearing a shirt and hat that said “MT Media,” which investigators said stands for “Murder the Media.”

Prosecutors say that Nordean, carrying a bullhorn, led a 100-person mob and entered the Capitol with another top-ranking Proud Boys leader, Joseph Biggs, who is also facing charges in connection with the attack.

In a criminal complaint against Nordean, prosecutors said he and other Proud Boys “were planning in advance to organize a group that would attempt to overwhelm police barricades and enter” the Capitol.

The 21-page complaint also said that, before marching on the building, Nordean had a brief exchange with another man charged in the assault, Robert Gieswein, of Woodland Park, Colorado, who has been accused of being a member of the far-right militia the Three Percenters.

Nordean, 30, of Auburn, Washington, was near the front of a crowd of rioters that confronted an outnumbered detachment of Capitol Police officers Jan. 6, prosecutors said. Moving past the officers, prosecutors said, he and other members of the Proud Boys forced their way into the building.

Before the attack on the Capitol, Nordean gave hints of an “intent to organize a group that intended to engage in conflict,” according to a news release issued Wednesday by the U.S. attorney’s office in Washington.

In late December, for example, he posted a message asking for donations of “protective gear” and “communications equipment,” prosecutors said. About a week later, prosecutors added, Nordean posted a video online, discussing what he described as “blatant rampant voter fraud” and saying that the Proud Boys were going to “bring back that original spirit of 1776 of what really established the character of what America is.”

After the assault, prosecutors say, Nordean continued writing inflammatory messages.

On Jan. 8, they said, he posted a photo on social media showing a police officer spraying pepper spray. The caption read, “If you feel bad for the police, you are part of the problem.”

The Justice Department continued building cases Wednesday against people accused of storming the Capitol, arresting a leader of the far-right group the Proud Boys and charging two men with conspiracy in an effort to block certification of President Joe Biden’s victory in the election.

The Justice Department continued building cases Wednesday against people accused of storming the Capitol, arresting a leader of the far-right group the Proud Boys and charging two men with conspiracy in an effort to block certification of President Joe Biden’s victory in the election. Ethan Nordean, self-described “sergeant of arms” of the Seattle chapter of the Proud Boys, was arrested Wednesday morning, federal prosecutors said. He had been under investigation for more than a week after prosecutors named him in court papers as a chief organizer of a mob of about 100 other members of the group that marched through Washington on Jan. 6, ending at the Capitol building. Separately, Nicholas DeCarlo, a 30-year-old Texas man, and Nicholas Ochs, a founder of Hawaii’s chapter of the Proud Boys, were charged with conspiring with one another and unnamed co-conspirators to stop the certification of Biden’s Electoral College win as part of last month’s riot at the Capitol, according to the indictment. The case against DeCarlo and Ochs was announced by John Demers, head of the Justice Department’s national security division, the U.S. attorney in Washington and the FBI’s Washington field office. Their indictments highlighted the government’s effort to bring more serious charges against some of the scores of people who were initially charged with lesser crimes after the attack. The two men had earlier been charged with unlawful entry and obstructing an official proceeding. DeCarlo and Ochs were charged in an indictment with conspiring with others to create a plan to stop Congress, raising money online to fund travel to Washington to carry out their plan, crossing state lines to obstruct Congress and forcibly storming the Capitol building. Combined with the separate charges against Nordean, the indictment against Ochs and DeCarlo underscored the increasingly prominent role that the Proud Boys are accused of playing in the assault. Leaders of the Proud Boys have sought to distance themselves from the riots, even as federal investigators scrutinize them as they seek to determine the full scope of the group’s involvement. In the indictment against DeCarlo and Ochs, prosecutors said the men carved the words “MURDER THE MEDIA” into the Capitol’s Memorial Door. The case is part of a strike force created by Michael Sherwin, the U.S. attorney in Washington, to examine violent actions that targeted members of the news media, the Justice Department said. Sherwin said at a recent news conference that it was “the height of hypocrisy” to attack journalists while invoking the First Amendment to justify illegally entering the Capitol. DeCarlo was also seen in photos taken inside the Capitol during the riots wearing a shirt and hat that said “MT Media,” which investigators said stands for “Murder the Media.” Prosecutors say that Nordean, carrying a bullhorn, led a 100-person mob and entered the Capitol with another top-ranking Proud Boys leader, Joseph Biggs, who is also facing charges in connection with the attack. In a criminal complaint against Nordean, prosecutors said he and other Proud Boys “were planning in advance to organize a group that would attempt to overwhelm police barricades and enter” the Capitol. The 21-page complaint also said that, before marching on the building, Nordean had a brief exchange with another man charged in the assault, Robert Gieswein, of Woodland Park, Colorado, who has been accused of being a member of the far-right militia the Three Percenters. Nordean, 30, of Auburn, Washington, was near the front of a crowd of rioters that confronted an outnumbered detachment of Capitol Police officers Jan. 6, prosecutors said. Moving past the officers, prosecutors said, he and other members of the Proud Boys forced their way into the building. Before the attack on the Capitol, Nordean gave hints of an “intent to organize a group that intended to engage in conflict,” according to a news release issued Wednesday by the U.S. attorney’s office in Washington. In late December, for example, he posted a message asking for donations of “protective gear” and “communications equipment,” prosecutors said. About a week later, prosecutors added, Nordean posted a video online, discussing what he described as “blatant rampant voter fraud” and saying that the Proud Boys were going to “bring back that original spirit of 1776 of what really established the character of what America is.” After the assault, prosecutors say, Nordean continued writing inflammatory messages. On Jan. 8, they said, he posted a photo on social media showing a police officer spraying pepper spray. The caption read, “If you feel bad for the police, you are part of the problem.”

Justice Department unveils further charges in Capitol riot

As inches of snow pile up during Washington’s biggest winter storm in two years, there is one place that won’t be seeing any snowball fights.

The Capitol grounds, one of the best spots in the city for sledding, are now off limits, another reverberation of the rampage there on Jan. 6.

Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton, the District of Columbia’s nonvoting House delegate, has urged the Capitol Police to allow the tradition to continue this week. The activity could be done safely, Norton said in a statement Saturday, “by allowing only children and adults accompanied by children” into the area.

But a Capitol Police spokeswoman, Eva Malecki, citing the current security concerns and the city’s coronavirus restrictions, said it could not be permitted. “We, however, look forward to welcoming sledders back in the future,” she said in a statement.

While a rule against sledding on the Capitol grounds has been in place for decades, it was rarely enforced until after the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.

Norton has pushed for sledding to be allowed on the grounds for years, routinely adding a provision to the annual federal spending bill to “forbear enforcement” of the ban mentioned on Page 175 of the Capitol Police regulations. She first succeeded in slipping the pro-sledding provision into the omnibus spending bill in 2016. (“Go for it!” she told the city’s residents after the ban was lifted that year.)

The previous year, Washingtonians held a “snow-in” at the complex to protest the rule.

The ban has been revived at another moment of heightened tensions. Instead of children making snowmen and snow angels, visitors to the Capitol complex these days are greeted by 7-foot-tall, unscalable fencing that went up after the riot.

The acting chief of the Capitol Police, Yogananda D. Pittman, is calling for “vast improvements” to security on the Capitol grounds after the attack, which injured nearly 140 police officers and killed an officer and a member of the mob.

Pittman, who took over the department when her predecessor resigned days after the riot, said that experts had argued for greater security measures for the Capitol even before the Sept. 11 attacks and that a security assessment in 2006 recommended a permanent fence.

But in a trying year, Norton said, the sledding tradition was one joy that should not be erased.

“Children across America have endured an extremely challenging year,” she said, “and D.C. children in particular have not only endured the coronavirus pandemic, but now the militarization of their city, with the hostile symbols of fences and barbed wire. Sledding is a simple, childhood thrill. It is the least we can allow for our resilient children this winter season.”

As inches of snow pile up during Washington’s biggest winter storm in two years, there is one place that won’t be seeing any snowball fights. The Capitol grounds, one of the best spots in the city for sledding, are now off limits, another reverberation of the rampage there on Jan.

As inches of snow pile up during Washington’s biggest winter storm in two years, there is one place that won’t be seeing any snowball fights. The Capitol grounds, one of the best spots in the city for sledding, are now off limits, another reverberation of the rampage there on Jan. 6. Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton, the District of Columbia’s nonvoting House delegate, has urged the Capitol Police to allow the tradition to continue this week. The activity could be done safely, Norton said in a statement Saturday, “by allowing only children and adults accompanied by children” into the area. But a Capitol Police spokeswoman, Eva Malecki, citing the current security concerns and the city’s coronavirus restrictions, said it could not be permitted. “We, however, look forward to welcoming sledders back in the future,” she said in a statement. While a rule against sledding on the Capitol grounds has been in place for decades, it was rarely enforced until after the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. Norton has pushed for sledding to be allowed on the grounds for years, routinely adding a provision to the annual federal spending bill to “forbear enforcement” of the ban mentioned on Page 175 of the Capitol Police regulations. She first succeeded in slipping the pro-sledding provision into the omnibus spending bill in 2016. (“Go for it!” she told the city’s residents after the ban was lifted that year.) The previous year, Washingtonians held a “snow-in” at the complex to protest the rule. The ban has been revived at another moment of heightened tensions. Instead of children making snowmen and snow angels, visitors to the Capitol complex these days are greeted by 7-foot-tall, unscalable fencing that went up after the riot. The acting chief of the Capitol Police, Yogananda D. Pittman, is calling for “vast improvements” to security on the Capitol grounds after the attack, which injured nearly 140 police officers and killed an officer and a member of the mob. Pittman, who took over the department when her predecessor resigned days after the riot, said that experts had argued for greater security measures for the Capitol even before the Sept. 11 attacks and that a security assessment in 2006 recommended a permanent fence. But in a trying year, Norton said, the sledding tradition was one joy that should not be erased. “Children across America have endured an extremely challenging year,” she said, “and D.C. children in particular have not only endured the coronavirus pandemic, but now the militarization of their city, with the hostile symbols of fences and barbed wire. Sledding is a simple, childhood thrill. It is the least we can allow for our resilient children this winter season.”

After the Capitol riot, a tradition is interrupted

Federal prosecutors investigating the violent riot at the Capitol this month announced their first conspiracy charges against the Proud Boys on Friday night, accusing two members of the far-right nationalist group of working together to obstruct and interfere with law enforcement officers protecting Congress during the final certification of the presidential election.

In a brief news release, the Justice Department said that an indictment had been filed against two Proud Boys, Dominic Pezzola, of Rochester, New York, and William Pepe, of Beacon, New York. But by late Friday night, the charging papers had not yet appeared in the Washington federal court database. Both Pezzola, a former boxer and Marine, and Pepe, an employee of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, already had been facing lesser charges connected to the Capitol attack.

While more than 170 people have been charged in the deadly assault on the Capitol, most have been accused of relatively minor crimes such as disorderly conduct and unlawful entry. The only other serious conspiracy charges in the inquiry have been brought against three members of the militia group the Oath Keepers, who are accused of preparing for the Jan. 6 rally in Washington as early as one week after the election.

The Proud Boys, a self-described “Western chauvinist” group that has a long history of bloody street fights with the activists known as antifa, have drawn the attention of investigators because they are one of the extremist outfits that had a large presence on Capitol Hill during the assault.

The organization, which has maintained links with both overt white supremacists and more mainstream Republicans, has been a vocal — and often violent — advocate for former President Donald Trump. During one of the presidential debates, Trump seemed to signal his support by telling its members to “stand back and stand by.”

Investigators have made a priority of exploring whether the attack was planned in advance. Earlier this week, Michael Sherwin, the U.S. attorney in Washington, said that prosecutors were focused on bringing “more complicated conspiracy cases related to possible coordination among militia groups” and “individuals from different states that had a plan to travel” to Washington before Jan. 6.

But because the new indictment remained under seal Friday night, it remained unclear precisely how prosecutors believed that Pezzola and Pepe conspired together to obstruct law enforcement.

Pezzola, 43, has been a particular focus of the sprawling investigation into the Capitol attack almost from the moment it began.

Court papers released Friday morning said that he was in the first wave of rioters to enter the building, shattering a window with a plastic police shield. After climbing through the window, prosecutors said, Pezzola joined a mob that confronted a Capitol Police officer, Eugene Goodman, in a stairwell near the Senate floor. According to court papers, someone in the mob called out, “Where they meeting at? Where they counting the votes?”

Prosecutors said that Pezzola later posted a video of himself online, smoking a cigar inside the Capitol. In the video, court papers say, he refers to the cigar as a “victory smoke,” adding that he knew the mob would be able to take over the building if the rioters “tried hard enough.”

When FBI agents searched Pezzola’s home near Rochester after the riot, prosecutors said, they found a thumb drive with several PDF files, some suggesting he had been studying bomb-making techniques. The computer files, court papers said, had titles like “Advanced Improvised Explosives,” “Explosive Dusts” and “Ragnar’s Big Book of Homemade Weapons.”

Michael Scibetta, Pezzola’s lawyer, said Friday night that he had not yet seen the new conspiracy charges and complained that authorities were not letting him see his client, who is in custody in Washington.

“The matter is evolving,” Scibetta said, adding that prosecutors were depriving Pezzola of “his constitutionally guaranteed right of assistance of counsel.”

Pepe’s lawyer, Susanne Brody, did not respond to an email seeking comment.

The prior charges against Pepe, a 31-year-old Metro-North Railroad worker, were only scantly described. In a criminal complaint issued Jan. 11, prosecutors said that he had used a day of sick leave to attend a “Stop the Steal” protest in Washington and was subsequently photographed inside the Capitol. At a hearing earlier this week, prosecutors made a cryptic reference to an ongoing investigation involving Pepe but never fully explained what it was at the time.

At least four other members of the Proud Boys have been charged so far in connection with the Capitol attack, including a top-ranking leader of the group, Joseph Biggs. Biggs, a U.S. Army veteran, stands accused of leading a group of about 100 Proud Boys on an angry march toward and into the Capitol.

Federal prosecutors investigating the violent riot at the Capitol this month announced their first conspiracy charges against the Proud Boys on Friday night, accusing two members of the far-right nationalist group of working together to obstruct and interfere with law enforcement officers protecting Congress during the final certification of the presidential election.

Federal prosecutors investigating the violent riot at the Capitol this month announced their first conspiracy charges against the Proud Boys on Friday night, accusing two members of the far-right nationalist group of working together to obstruct and interfere with law enforcement officers protecting Congress during the final certification of the presidential election. In a brief news release, the Justice Department said that an indictment had been filed against two Proud Boys, Dominic Pezzola, of Rochester, New York, and William Pepe, of Beacon, New York. But by late Friday night, the charging papers had not yet appeared in the Washington federal court database. Both Pezzola, a former boxer and Marine, and Pepe, an employee of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, already had been facing lesser charges connected to the Capitol attack. While more than 170 people have been charged in the deadly assault on the Capitol, most have been accused of relatively minor crimes such as disorderly conduct and unlawful entry. The only other serious conspiracy charges in the inquiry have been brought against three members of the militia group the Oath Keepers, who are accused of preparing for the Jan. 6 rally in Washington as early as one week after the election. The Proud Boys, a self-described “Western chauvinist” group that has a long history of bloody street fights with the activists known as antifa, have drawn the attention of investigators because they are one of the extremist outfits that had a large presence on Capitol Hill during the assault. The organization, which has maintained links with both overt white supremacists and more mainstream Republicans, has been a vocal — and often violent — advocate for former President Donald Trump. During one of the presidential debates, Trump seemed to signal his support by telling its members to “stand back and stand by.” Investigators have made a priority of exploring whether the attack was planned in advance. Earlier this week, Michael Sherwin, the U.S. attorney in Washington, said that prosecutors were focused on bringing “more complicated conspiracy cases related to possible coordination among militia groups” and “individuals from different states that had a plan to travel” to Washington before Jan. 6. But because the new indictment remained under seal Friday night, it remained unclear precisely how prosecutors believed that Pezzola and Pepe conspired together to obstruct law enforcement. Pezzola, 43, has been a particular focus of the sprawling investigation into the Capitol attack almost from the moment it began. Court papers released Friday morning said that he was in the first wave of rioters to enter the building, shattering a window with a plastic police shield. After climbing through the window, prosecutors said, Pezzola joined a mob that confronted a Capitol Police officer, Eugene Goodman, in a stairwell near the Senate floor. According to court papers, someone in the mob called out, “Where they meeting at? Where they counting the votes?” Prosecutors said that Pezzola later posted a video of himself online, smoking a cigar inside the Capitol. In the video, court papers say, he refers to the cigar as a “victory smoke,” adding that he knew the mob would be able to take over the building if the rioters “tried hard enough.” When FBI agents searched Pezzola’s home near Rochester after the riot, prosecutors said, they found a thumb drive with several PDF files, some suggesting he had been studying bomb-making techniques. The computer files, court papers said, had titles like “Advanced Improvised Explosives,” “Explosive Dusts” and “Ragnar’s Big Book of Homemade Weapons.” Michael Scibetta, Pezzola’s lawyer, said Friday night that he had not yet seen the new conspiracy charges and complained that authorities were not letting him see his client, who is in custody in Washington. “The matter is evolving,” Scibetta said, adding that prosecutors were depriving Pezzola of “his constitutionally guaranteed right of assistance of counsel.” Pepe’s lawyer, Susanne Brody, did not respond to an email seeking comment. The prior charges against Pepe, a 31-year-old Metro-North Railroad worker, were only scantly described. In a criminal complaint issued Jan. 11, prosecutors said that he had used a day of sick leave to attend a “Stop the Steal” protest in Washington and was subsequently photographed inside the Capitol. At a hearing earlier this week, prosecutors made a cryptic reference to an ongoing investigation involving Pepe but never fully explained what it was at the time. At least four other members of the Proud Boys have been charged so far in connection with the Capitol attack, including a top-ranking leader of the group, Joseph Biggs. Biggs, a U.S. Army veteran, stands accused of leading a group of about 100 Proud Boys on an angry march toward and into the Capitol.

Proud Boys charged with conspiracy in Capitol riot

The US Capitol is on lockdown, with no entry or exit allowed due to an external security threat and people inside being forced to shelter in place after a fire broke out near the complex.

News Alert: US Capitol under 'no entry or exit' order

Messaging application Telegram recently cracked down on public calls for violence in the United States. The application’s founder Pavel Durov claimed that the service took down the calls keeping in mind the company’s terms of service.

On Monday, Telegram put out a public post in which its founder reiterated the company’s commitment to banning hate speech.

“Telegram welcomes peaceful debate and protest, but our Terms of Service explicitly prohibit distributing public calls to violence,” he wrote in the public post. 
 
&nbsp;“Сivil movements all over the world rely on Telegram in order to stand up for human rights without resorting to inflicting harm”, the post added. 
 
Over time, Telegram has cracked down on threats of violence and terrorism in public spaces, but has largely remained against making these conversations available to law enforcement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/final-nail-in-coffin-telegram-again-trolls-whatsapp-over-new-privacy-update-356104" hreflang="en">Final nail in coffin: Telegram again trolls Whatsapp over new privacy update</a>

In the aftermath of the violence which shook US Capitol on January 6, debates surrounding the value of chat encryption have popped up. Many critics feel that wearing privacy protections is the only way to encrypt chat services. 
 
Durov added that Telegram had witnessed an increase in violent threats, as reported by other services over the last month.

“In early January, the Telegram moderation team started to receive an increased number of reports about US-related public activity on our platform,” the post said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/thailand-authorities-restrict-telegram-app-over-protests-336444" hreflang="en">Thailand authorities restrict Telegram app over protests</a> 
 
It added that the team had acted by “clamping down on US channels that advocated violence”.

“Thanks to these efforts, last week our moderators blocked and shut down hundreds of public calls for violence that could’ve otherwise reached tens of thousands of subscribers”, it added.

Messaging application Telegram recently cracked down on public calls for violence in the United States. The application’s founder Pavel Durov claimed that the service took down the calls keeping in mind the company’s terms of service.

Messaging application Telegram recently cracked down on public calls for violence in the United States. The application’s founder Pavel Durov claimed that the service took down the calls keeping in mind the company’s terms of service. On Monday, Telegram put out a public post in which its founder reiterated the company’s commitment to banning hate speech. “Telegram welcomes peaceful debate and protest, but our Terms of Service explicitly prohibit distributing public calls to violence,” he wrote in the public post. “Сivil movements all over the world rely on Telegram in order to stand up for human rights without resorting to inflicting harm”, the post added. Over time, Telegram has cracked down on threats of violence and terrorism in public spaces, but has largely remained against making these conversations available to law enforcement. Also read: Final nail in coffin: Telegram again trolls Whatsapp over new privacy update In the aftermath of the violence which shook US Capitol on January 6, debates surrounding the value of chat encryption have popped up. Many critics feel that wearing privacy protections is the only way to encrypt chat services. Durov added that Telegram had witnessed an increase in violent threats, as reported by other services over the last month. “In early January, the Telegram moderation team started to receive an increased number of reports about US-related public activity on our platform,” the post said. Also read: Thailand authorities restrict Telegram app over protests It added that the team had acted by “clamping down on US channels that advocated violence”. “Thanks to these efforts, last week our moderators blocked and shut down hundreds of public calls for violence that could’ve otherwise reached tens of thousands of subscribers”, it added.

Telegram claims to have 'shut down hundreds of calls for violence' last week in US

The US Capitol is once again under a strict lockdown after locals reported smoke coming out of a building behind the building on Monday.

Several videos surfaced on the internet in which smoke could be seen coming out of a building behind the Capitol, which is being reported to be&nbsp;a homeless complex.

Immediately after the smoke was spotted, the Capitol was put under a "no entry or exit" order due to an "external security threat" under&nbsp;a nearby freeway overpass. People present in the building were urged to stay away from all doors and windows and seek cover.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-vets-national-guard-troops-fearing-insider-attack-during-biden-inauguration-report-357417" hreflang="en">Biden inauguration: FBI vets National Guard troops fearing 'insider attack'</a>

The DC Fire and EMS unit&nbsp;"responded to an outside fire in the 100 block of H St SE that has been extinguished. There were no injuries. This accounts for smoke that many have seen," they said on Twitter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCsBravest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCsBravest</a> responded to an outside fire in the 100 block of H St SE that has been extinguished. There were no injuries. This accounts for smoke that many have seen.
— DC Fire and EMS (@dcfireems) <a href="https://twitter.com/dcfireems/status/1351189982912901124?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

This incident has taken place&nbsp;a few days before the president-elect <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a> is set to take oath as the new President of the US in an inauguration ceremony to be held in the US Capitol on January 20.

The Capitol has been put under a lockdown due to fears of another possible riot. The fear comes after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump's</a> supporters stormed the Capitol and carried out deadly riots in the building with an alleged aim to disrupt the certification process of Joe Biden's win, and attacking the Democrat lawmakers.

The US Capitol is once again under a strict lockdown after locals reported smoke coming out of a building behind the building on Monday. Several videos surfaced on the internet in which smoke could be seen coming out of a building behind the Capitol, which is being reported to be a homeless complex.

The US Capitol is once again under a strict lockdown after locals reported smoke coming out of a building behind the building on Monday. Several videos surfaced on the internet in which smoke could be seen coming out of a building behind the Capitol, which is being reported to be a homeless complex. Immediately after the smoke was spotted, the Capitol was put under a "no entry or exit" order due to an "external security threat" under a nearby freeway overpass. People present in the building were urged to stay away from all doors and windows and seek cover. Also read| Biden inauguration: FBI vets National Guard troops fearing 'insider attack' The DC Fire and EMS unit "responded to an outside fire in the 100 block of H St SE that has been extinguished. There were no injuries. This accounts for smoke that many have seen," they said on Twitter. #DCsBravest responded to an outside fire in the 100 block of H St SE that has been extinguished. There were no injuries. This accounts for smoke that many have seen. — DC Fire and EMS (@dcfireems) January 18, 2021 × This incident has taken place a few days before the president-elect Joe Biden is set to take oath as the new President of the US in an inauguration ceremony to be held in the US Capitol on January 20. The Capitol has been put under a lockdown due to fears of another possible riot. The fear comes after Donald Trump's supporters stormed the Capitol and carried out deadly riots in the building with an alleged aim to disrupt the certification process of Joe Biden's win, and attacking the Democrat lawmakers.

Panic grips Washington after smoke bellows near US Capitol

Washington, DC, police officers are speaking out following a riot at the US Capitol which resulted in five deaths.

Washington D.C. police officers describe siege of U.S. Capitol hill | World News

For months, far-right extremists have been openly posting their threats on public sites. Now, wary of surveillance and amid a crackdown by social media, some are shifting their online communications to private chats or lesser known platforms that could make those threats harder to find.

Law enforcement scrutiny drives US extremists into internet's dark corners

US Justice Department investigators have not found any evidence yet that the rioters who ransacked the US Capitol last week intended to capture and kill any lawmakers.

In an Arizona court filing on Friday in the case of Jacob Chansley, federal prosecutors took back an earlier assertion that supporters of President Donald Trump planned to "capture and assassinate elected officials" in the January 6 siege of the US legislature.

The claim was made in arguments to prevent the court from granting bail to Chansley, aka Jake Angeli, seen worldwide in photographs bare-shirted wearing a horned headdress and carrying a spear inside the Capitol.

On Friday, however, the Arizona prosecutors withdrew that claim as the Justice Department said that, despite calls during the attack to capture certain lawmakers and to kill Vice President Mike Pence, no evidence had been found yet to support any serious effort to do so.

"There is no direct evidence at this point of kill-capture teams and assassination," the federal district attorney for Washington DC who is overseeing the investigation of the Capitol attack, told reporters.

Nevertheless, the US Capitol remained on heavy lockdown Saturday ahead of the January 20 inauguration of Joe Biden as president, with security officials worried of potentially violent attacks on the event.

Biden is slated to several executive orders on the first day of his office.

US Justice Department investigators have not found any evidence yet that the rioters who ransacked the US Capitol last week intended to capture and kill any lawmakers.

US Justice Department investigators have not found any evidence yet that the rioters who ransacked the US Capitol last week intended to capture and kill any lawmakers. In an Arizona court filing on Friday in the case of Jacob Chansley, federal prosecutors took back an earlier assertion that supporters of President Donald Trump planned to "capture and assassinate elected officials" in the January 6 siege of the US legislature. The claim was made in arguments to prevent the court from granting bail to Chansley, aka Jake Angeli, seen worldwide in photographs bare-shirted wearing a horned headdress and carrying a spear inside the Capitol. On Friday, however, the Arizona prosecutors withdrew that claim as the Justice Department said that, despite calls during the attack to capture certain lawmakers and to kill Vice President Mike Pence, no evidence had been found yet to support any serious effort to do so. "There is no direct evidence at this point of kill-capture teams and assassination," the federal district attorney for Washington DC who is overseeing the investigation of the Capitol attack, told reporters. Nevertheless, the US Capitol remained on heavy lockdown Saturday ahead of the January 20 inauguration of Joe Biden as president, with security officials worried of potentially violent attacks on the event. Biden is slated to several executive orders on the first day of his office.

US investigating officers find no evidence of murder plot in Capitol attack

In the aftermath of the violence which rocked US Capitol on January 6, federal authorities have been working to identify and charge the rioters. President Donald Trump is facing a second impeachment owing to his role in leading protesters to the Capitol.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-capitol-under-heavy-security-days-after-the-violence-in-capitol-building-357017/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Now, his supporters who stormed the Capitol are seeking formal pardons from the incumbent president before he leaves office in over three days.

Among them is Jenna Ryan, a real estate agent from Texas who took a private jet to Washington to participate in the riots.

After facing arrest by federal authorities, she hopes Trump will pardon her, and many like her.

“We all deserve a pardon”, she reportedly said after surrendering to the FBI on Friday.

In conversation with CBS, she added that she was facing a prison sentence, and that she does not “deserve that”. “I would ask the president of the United States to give me a pardon”, she added.

The attack on US Capitol on January 6 left five people dead, including a police officer.

According to Ryan, she was “displaying” her patriotism at the Capitol, claiming that she was simply listening to her president who told them “to go to the Capitol”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/a-man-with-a-gun-arrested-by-capitol-police-calls-it-an-honest-mistake-357287" hreflang="en">A man with a gun arrested by Capitol Police calls it an ‘honest mistake’</a>

Just before the attack, Ryan said the following in a Facebook video - “We’re gonna go down and storm the Capitol. They’re down there right now and that’s why we came and so that’s what we are going to do. So wish me luck.”

“Life or death, it doesn’t matter. Here we go”, her video added.

“We just stormed the Capital [sic]. It was one of the best days of my life”, she tweeted later.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/far-right-activist-baked-alaska-among-latest-capitol-rioters-arrested-357271" hreflang="en">Far-right activist ‘Baked Alaska’ among latest Capitol rioters arrested</a>

Another person - Jacob Chansley who became the most recognisable rioters for his attire including horns, animal skin, and face pain is seeking a pardon as well. 
 
One of his lawyers, Albert Watkins said that the “honourable thing” to do would be to pardon those who had accepted the “president’s invitation”, The Guardian quoted him as saying.

Chansley currently faces six federal charges.

In the aftermath of the violence which rocked US Capitol on January 6, federal authorities have been working to identify and charge the rioters. President Donald Trump is facing a second impeachment owing to his role in leading protesters to the Capitol.

In the aftermath of the violence which rocked US Capitol on January 6, federal authorities have been working to identify and charge the rioters. President Donald Trump is facing a second impeachment owing to his role in leading protesters to the Capitol. Now, his supporters who stormed the Capitol are seeking formal pardons from the incumbent president before he leaves office in over three days. Among them is Jenna Ryan, a real estate agent from Texas who took a private jet to Washington to participate in the riots. After facing arrest by federal authorities, she hopes Trump will pardon her, and many like her. “We all deserve a pardon”, she reportedly said after surrendering to the FBI on Friday. In conversation with CBS, she added that she was facing a prison sentence, and that she does not “deserve that”. “I would ask the president of the United States to give me a pardon”, she added. The attack on US Capitol on January 6 left five people dead, including a police officer. According to Ryan, she was “displaying” her patriotism at the Capitol, claiming that she was simply listening to her president who told them “to go to the Capitol”. Also read: A man with a gun arrested by Capitol Police calls it an ‘honest mistake’ Just before the attack, Ryan said the following in a Facebook video - “We’re gonna go down and storm the Capitol. They’re down there right now and that’s why we came and so that’s what we are going to do. So wish me luck.” “Life or death, it doesn’t matter. Here we go”, her video added. “We just stormed the Capital [sic]. It was one of the best days of my life”, she tweeted later. Also read: Far-right activist ‘Baked Alaska’ among latest Capitol rioters arrested Another person - Jacob Chansley who became the most recognisable rioters for his attire including horns, animal skin, and face pain is seeking a pardon as well. One of his lawyers, Albert Watkins said that the “honourable thing” to do would be to pardon those who had accepted the “president’s invitation”, The Guardian quoted him as saying. Chansley currently faces six federal charges.

Rioters who attacked US Capitol seek pardons from President Trump

The Federal Bureau of Investigation in the United States is currently questioning dozens of people in relation to the killing of a police officer during the attack on US Capitol.

Brian Sicknick died a day after a mob supporting US President Donald Trump stormed the Capitol last week. Reportedly, they attacked law enforcement officers.&nbsp;

The New York Times reported that FBI is in the process of questioning dozens of people.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-capitol-invaders-smash-windows-destroy-furniture-355302/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to NYT, the FBI shed light on its investigation in a memo which was dispatched to the private sector and others on Friday.

Last week, Reuters reported that Sicknick was pepper-sprayed and hit hit on the head, as stated by his father.

Soon after the injuries, he was rushed to a nearby Washington hospital. He was resuscitated by ambulance crews twice in transit. But he died the next day.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/olympic-gold-medallist-klete-keller-charged-for-role-in-us-capitol-riots-356682" hreflang="en">Olympic gold-medallist Klete Keller charged for role in US Capitol riots</a>

The Washington Metropolitan Police is investigation Sicknick’s death as a homicide. The FBI is assisting the local police.

Five people including Sicknick died in the attack on US Capitol last Wednesday which shook the world, marking the first such incident in US history when transfer of power has been marred with the US.

Trump has asked his supporters to show up at a rally near the White House, and then urged them to march to the Capitol where lawmakers were meeting to certify Biden as the winner in the US elections.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/canada-mulls-labeling-proud-boys-as-terrorist-organisation-after-us-capitol-hill-riots-356178" hreflang="en">Canada mulls labeling Proud Boys as 'terrorist organisation' after US Capitol Hill riots</a>

Some rioters also lost their lives in the attack.

The memo by FBI added that 14 police officers had been injured in the riots that took the US Capitol by storm.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation in the United States is currently questioning dozens of people in relation to the killing of a police officer during the attack on US Capitol.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation in the United States is currently questioning dozens of people in relation to the killing of a police officer during the attack on US Capitol. Brian Sicknick died a day after a mob supporting US President Donald Trump stormed the Capitol last week. Reportedly, they attacked law enforcement officers. The New York Times reported that FBI is in the process of questioning dozens of people. According to NYT, the FBI shed light on its investigation in a memo which was dispatched to the private sector and others on Friday. Last week, Reuters reported that Sicknick was pepper-sprayed and hit hit on the head, as stated by his father. Soon after the injuries, he was rushed to a nearby Washington hospital. He was resuscitated by ambulance crews twice in transit. But he died the next day. Also read: Olympic gold-medallist Klete Keller charged for role in US Capitol riots The Washington Metropolitan Police is investigation Sicknick’s death as a homicide. The FBI is assisting the local police. Five people including Sicknick died in the attack on US Capitol last Wednesday which shook the world, marking the first such incident in US history when transfer of power has been marred with the US. Trump has asked his supporters to show up at a rally near the White House, and then urged them to march to the Capitol where lawmakers were meeting to certify Biden as the winner in the US elections. Also read: Canada mulls labeling Proud Boys as 'terrorist organisation' after US Capitol Hill riots Some rioters also lost their lives in the attack. The memo by FBI added that 14 police officers had been injured in the riots that took the US Capitol by storm.

FBI investigating dozens for death of police officer at US Capitol

A new report has sparked fresh outrage after it was revealed dozens of rioters who participated in the carnage were already on an FBI terrorist watch list by the time the riots took place.

The new information comes after it was found that a January 5 FBI report had warned that pro-Trump insurrectionists were planning to wage a "war" at the US Capitol the next day.&nbsp;

The revelation follows a Washington Post report earlier this week detailing the FBI’s failure to act aggressively on an internal intelligence report of internet discussions about plans to attack Congress, smash windows, break down doors and “get violent … go there ready for war.”

According to the FBI’s website, the watch list is a “single database that contains sensitive national security and law enforcement information concerning the identities of those who are known or reasonably suspected of being involved in terrorist activities” and is run by the FBI’s Terrorist Screening Centre, which was established after the September 11 attacks.

Meanwhile, Trump has became the only president in US history to be impeached twice after the House of Representatives brought forth an article of impeachment against him on a charge of "incitement of insurrection."&nbsp;

The riots last week have brought into sharp focus the potential dangers that lawmakers and, potentially, the next president, face from supporters of Trump, who has continued to falsely claim that he, not Biden, won the election.

Trump and his aides have been consistently making unsubstantiated claims of election frauds ever since it was clear that he was to leave office to make way for Joe Biden. Trump campaign has presented no evidence and has suffered defeats in courts across the US including in US Supreme Court.

(With agency inputs)

A new report has sparked fresh outrage after it was revealed dozens of rioters who participated in the carnage were already on an FBI terrorist watch list by the time the riots took place.

A new report has sparked fresh outrage after it was revealed dozens of rioters who participated in the carnage were already on an FBI terrorist watch list by the time the riots took place. The new information comes after it was found that a January 5 FBI report had warned that pro-Trump insurrectionists were planning to wage a "war" at the US Capitol the next day. The revelation follows a Washington Post report earlier this week detailing the FBI’s failure to act aggressively on an internal intelligence report of internet discussions about plans to attack Congress, smash windows, break down doors and “get violent … go there ready for war.” According to the FBI’s website, the watch list is a “single database that contains sensitive national security and law enforcement information concerning the identities of those who are known or reasonably suspected of being involved in terrorist activities” and is run by the FBI’s Terrorist Screening Centre, which was established after the September 11 attacks. Meanwhile, Trump has became the only president in US history to be impeached twice after the House of Representatives brought forth an article of impeachment against him on a charge of "incitement of insurrection." The riots last week have brought into sharp focus the potential dangers that lawmakers and, potentially, the next president, face from supporters of Trump, who has continued to falsely claim that he, not Biden, won the election. Trump and his aides have been consistently making unsubstantiated claims of election frauds ever since it was clear that he was to leave office to make way for Joe Biden. Trump campaign has presented no evidence and has suffered defeats in courts across the US including in US Supreme Court. (With agency inputs)

Dozens on FBI terrorist watch list came to Washington DC on day of riots

A week before @JoeBiden is sworn in, a state of emergency has been imposed in Washington D.C. WION's Palki asks: Should the world send observers & a peace delegation to America to ensure a smooth transition

Gravitas: Emergency imposed in Washington D.C.

In yet another defense, current US President Donald Trump said that his speech before Capitol Hill violence was "totally appropriate". He was speaking with reporters before flying to Texas in order to inspect border wall with Texas. The violence at Capitol Hill saw 5 deaths and dozens of injuries.&nbsp;

"They've analyzed my speech in my words and my final paragraph, my final sentence, and everybody to the tee just thought it was totally appropriate," said Trump on Tuesday.

On January 6, Donald Trump addressed a huge crowd of supporters in Washington DC and made unsubstantiated claims of widespread fraud in US Presidential elections 2020. During his speech, he implored his supporters to "walk down to Capitol" just when the US Congress was meeting to certify Joe Biden's victory in elections.

"We're going to walk down to the Capitol, and we're going to cheer on our brave senators and congressmen and women, and we're probably not going to be cheering so much for some of them, because you'll never take back our country with weakness. You have to show strength,"

Trump and his aides have been consistently making unsubstantiated claims of election frauds ever since it was clear that he was to leave office to make way for Joe Biden. Trump campaign has presented no evidence and has suffered defeats in courts across the US including in US Supreme Court.

(With agency inputs)

In yet another defense, current US President Donald Trump said that his speech before Capitol Hill violence was "totally appropriate". He was speaking with reporters before flying to Texas in order to inspect border wall with Texas.

In yet another defense, current US President Donald Trump said that his speech before Capitol Hill violence was "totally appropriate". He was speaking with reporters before flying to Texas in order to inspect border wall with Texas. The violence at Capitol Hill saw 5 deaths and dozens of injuries. "They've analyzed my speech in my words and my final paragraph, my final sentence, and everybody to the tee just thought it was totally appropriate," said Trump on Tuesday. On January 6, Donald Trump addressed a huge crowd of supporters in Washington DC and made unsubstantiated claims of widespread fraud in US Presidential elections 2020. During his speech, he implored his supporters to "walk down to Capitol" just when the US Congress was meeting to certify Joe Biden's victory in elections. "We're going to walk down to the Capitol, and we're going to cheer on our brave senators and congressmen and women, and we're probably not going to be cheering so much for some of them, because you'll never take back our country with weakness. You have to show strength," Trump and his aides have been consistently making unsubstantiated claims of election frauds ever since it was clear that he was to leave office to make way for Joe Biden. Trump campaign has presented no evidence and has suffered defeats in courts across the US including in US Supreme Court. (With agency inputs)

Capitol violence: Pre-riot speech was 'totally appropriate', says Trump

Ahead of Joe Biden's inauguration, America's FBI has warned that armed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrats-introduce-trump-impeachment-article-in-us-house-356120">Trump</a> supporters could hold protests in all 50 states between the coming weekend and January 20 when the president-elect takes oath.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-donald-trump-be-impeached-356125/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As authorities begin ramping up security, Pentagon said it had authorized 15,000 National Guard troops to be deployed for Biden's inauguration.

Chief of the defence department's National Guard Bureau Daniel Hokanson said that at least 6,200 have already been deployed in capital Washington with another 10,000 planned deployment over the weekend.

Hokanson added that 5,000 troops could be deployed during Biden's oath-taking ceremony. The security measures are being implemented after the violence erupted last Wednesday in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-reassess-security-for-inauguration-and-demonstrations-after-capitol-attack-356109">Capitol </a>when people stormed the US Congress with five people being killed and a police officer who died due to injuries.

Meanwhile, the US Justice Department has charged 15 people involved in violence last Wednesday on the Congress which includes Richard Barnett a Trump supporter who invaded the office of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Lonnie Coffman of Alabama who was found carrying two handguns.

Barnett who was photographed with his feet on the desk in Pelosi's office was charged with theft of stationery by authorities.

Acting US Attorney Michael Sherwin said: "The lawless destruction of the US Capitol building was an attack against one of our nation's greatest institutions."

Reports said there are several more charges being framed as the FBI continues to investigate the case.

Washington police have arrested at least 40 people and charged them with various offences including weapons offences, unlawful entry and curfew violations.

Ahead of Joe Biden's inauguration, America's FBI has warned that armed Trump supporters could hold protests in all 50 states between the coming weekend and January 20 when the president-elect takes oath.

Ahead of Joe Biden's inauguration, America's FBI has warned that armed Trump supporters could hold protests in all 50 states between the coming weekend and January 20 when the president-elect takes oath. Watch: As authorities begin ramping up security, Pentagon said it had authorized 15,000 National Guard troops to be deployed for Biden's inauguration. Chief of the defence department's National Guard Bureau Daniel Hokanson said that at least 6,200 have already been deployed in capital Washington with another 10,000 planned deployment over the weekend. Hokanson added that 5,000 troops could be deployed during Biden's oath-taking ceremony. The security measures are being implemented after the violence erupted last Wednesday in the Capitol when people stormed the US Congress with five people being killed and a police officer who died due to injuries. Meanwhile, the US Justice Department has charged 15 people involved in violence last Wednesday on the Congress which includes Richard Barnett a Trump supporter who invaded the office of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Lonnie Coffman of Alabama who was found carrying two handguns. Barnett who was photographed with his feet on the desk in Pelosi's office was charged with theft of stationery by authorities. Acting US Attorney Michael Sherwin said: "The lawless destruction of the US Capitol building was an attack against one of our nation's greatest institutions." Reports said there are several more charges being framed as the FBI continues to investigate the case. Washington police have arrested at least 40 people and charged them with various offences including weapons offences, unlawful entry and curfew violations.

FBI warns armed Trump supporters could hold protests in all 50 states ahead of Biden's inauguration

In 9 days, DonaldTrump will leave the White House. But the developments hint at a possible impeachment before January 20th. Will the house adopt the impeachment resolution? Will U.S. Vice President Mike Pence invoke the 25th amendment?

Gravitas: Will Donald Trump be impeached?

Condemning the violence at the US Capitol that shook the entire world last week, First Lady of the United States Melania Trump said that the "nation must heal in a civil manner".&nbsp;

Melania wrote that she is "disappointed and disheartened" with the incident, but found it shameful that it led to "salacious gossip, unwarranted personal attacks, and false misleading accusations on me" in an article posted on the White House's website.

Watch |&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-house-speaker-nancy-pelosi-says-ready-to-start-impeachment-against-donald-trump-356032/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

She further added it is time for the US and its citizens to "heal" and nobody should use it "for personal gain".&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/can-donald-trump-survive-without-twitter-355589">Can Donald Trump survive without Twitter?</a>

"Our Nation must heal in a civil manner. Make no mistake about it, I absolutely condemn the violence that has occurred on our Nation's Capitol. Violence is never acceptable," wrote the First Lady.&nbsp;

"I implore people to stop the violence, never make assumptions based on the color (colour) of a person's skin or use differing political ideologies as a basis for aggression and viciousness. We must listen to one another, focus on what unites us, and rise above what divides us."

She said that it was "inspiring" to see the huge passion to participate in the electoral process, but that "passion" should not be turned into "violence".

She also wrote that it's an "honour" to be the First Lady and thanked Americans for supporting President Donald Trump and herself in the last four years.&nbsp;

"Most importantly, I ask for healing, grace, understanding, and peace for our great Nation," Melania wrote.&nbsp;

Condemning the violence at the US Capitol that shook the entire world last week, First Lady of the United States Melania Trump said that the "nation must heal in a civil manner".

Condemning the violence at the US Capitol that shook the entire world last week, First Lady of the United States Melania Trump said that the "nation must heal in a civil manner". Melania wrote that she is "disappointed and disheartened" with the incident, but found it shameful that it led to "salacious gossip, unwarranted personal attacks, and false misleading accusations on me" in an article posted on the White House's website. Watch | She further added it is time for the US and its citizens to "heal" and nobody should use it "for personal gain". Also read | Can Donald Trump survive without Twitter? "Our Nation must heal in a civil manner. Make no mistake about it, I absolutely condemn the violence that has occurred on our Nation's Capitol. Violence is never acceptable," wrote the First Lady. "I implore people to stop the violence, never make assumptions based on the color (colour) of a person's skin or use differing political ideologies as a basis for aggression and viciousness. We must listen to one another, focus on what unites us, and rise above what divides us." She said that it was "inspiring" to see the huge passion to participate in the electoral process, but that "passion" should not be turned into "violence". She also wrote that it's an "honour" to be the First Lady and thanked Americans for supporting President Donald Trump and herself in the last four years. "Most importantly, I ask for healing, grace, understanding, and peace for our great Nation," Melania wrote.

Melania condemns US Capitol violence, says it's time for 'healing in a civil manner'

In the aftermath of the attack on the US Capitol, local law enforcement agencies are trying to nab all the perpetrators involved in the incident. As more details of the violence at the Capitol emerge, the police are employing Artificial Intelligence (AI) to track the rioters.

A controversial facial recognition application by Clearview is reportedly being used by authorities to track people involved in the attack which took place on Wednesday. Many of the perpetrators were seen clicking selfies, and live streaming the incident as the attack took place. This has made the job of the police easier.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/what-do-majority-of-americans-think-of-donald-trump-after-the-recent-us-capitol-siege-355676/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In the aftermath of the attack, five people including a police officer were pronounced dead. Reported first by The New York Times, Clearview facial recognition witnessed a jump of 26 per cent in the number of searches. Clearview AI CEO Haon Ton-That told Gizmodo about the upsurge in search trends, which began on January 7. 
 
A plethora of images of the attackers had made the rounds on social networking websites and was broadcast on live television too. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with Washington DC police are using the available evidence to track the attackers, and have also urged people with any information about the details of the perpetrators to come forward.
</div>

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/outgoing-us-capitol-police-chief-says-his-effort-to-get-help-was-thwarted-355952" hreflang="en">Outgoing US Capitol Police chief says his effort to get help was thwarted</a>

Gizmodo reported that over 2,400 police agencies in the US are using Clearview's facial recognition technology to recognise the assailants, who are largely seen as pro-Trump supporters.

NYT reported that detectives at the Miami Police Department are using Clearview's technology to identify and charge rioters. They are forwarding the information to the FBI. 
 
Last week, The Wall Street Journal claimed that the Alabama police department is also using the same technology to identify people from the footage, and then handing over the information to federal investigators.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-house-democrats-plan-vote-on-monday-for-removing-trump-over-capitol-riots-355859" hreflang="en">US House Democrats plan vote on Monday for removing Trump over Capitol riots</a> 
 
The Democrats, who are now in control of both the House and the Senate are set to move forward with a second attempt at impeaching Donald Trump from office, just 9 days before he officially leaves the presidential office, handing over the reins to President-elect Joe Biden.

In the aftermath of the attack on the US Capitol, local law enforcement agencies are trying to nab all the perpetrators involved in the incident. As more details of the violence at the Capitol emerge, the police are employing Artificial Intelligence (AI) to track the rioters.

In the aftermath of the attack on the US Capitol, local law enforcement agencies are trying to nab all the perpetrators involved in the incident. As more details of the violence at the Capitol emerge, the police are employing Artificial Intelligence (AI) to track the rioters. A controversial facial recognition application by Clearview is reportedly being used by authorities to track people involved in the attack which took place on Wednesday. Many of the perpetrators were seen clicking selfies, and live streaming the incident as the attack took place. This has made the job of the police easier. × In the aftermath of the attack, five people including a police officer were pronounced dead. Reported first by The New York Times, Clearview facial recognition witnessed a jump of 26 per cent in the number of searches. Clearview AI CEO Haon Ton-That told Gizmodo about the upsurge in search trends, which began on January 7. A plethora of images of the attackers had made the rounds on social networking websites and was broadcast on live television too. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with Washington DC police are using the available evidence to track the attackers, and have also urged people with any information about the details of the perpetrators to come forward. Also read: Outgoing US Capitol Police chief says his effort to get help was thwarted Gizmodo reported that over 2,400 police agencies in the US are using Clearview's facial recognition technology to recognise the assailants, who are largely seen as pro-Trump supporters. NYT reported that detectives at the Miami Police Department are using Clearview's technology to identify and charge rioters. They are forwarding the information to the FBI. Last week, The Wall Street Journal claimed that the Alabama police department is also using the same technology to identify people from the footage, and then handing over the information to federal investigators. Also read: US House Democrats plan vote on Monday for removing Trump over Capitol riots The Democrats, who are now in control of both the House and the Senate are set to move forward with a second attempt at impeaching Donald Trump from office, just 9 days before he officially leaves the presidential office, handing over the reins to President-elect Joe Biden.

American agencies using facial recognition tools to nab US Capitol rioters

Another horrifying video from Wednesday's riots at the US Capitol Hill has emerged, which shows a policeman crushed between the pro-Trump mob and officers defending the building.

The said policeman was pinned between a door and the masses of people as per the video captured by investigative outlet Status Coup.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
HORRIFYING Footage Shot by <a href="https://twitter.com/JonFarinaPhoto?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JonFarinaPhoto</a> of Trump’s Army Storming Inside the Capitol and Attacking Cops. 
 
FULL VIDEO: <a href="https://t.co/DwqQd1HuBM">https://t.co/DwqQd1HuBM</a> <a href="https://t.co/c8GHiWAEfp">pic.twitter.com/c8GHiWAEfp</a>
— Status Coup News (@StatusCoup) <a href="https://twitter.com/StatusCoup/status/1347230708721451008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

It can also be seen that at least one individual attempted to rip away the officer's mask while he was wedged.

What follows is even more ghastly. The officer reenters the frame of the video stuck in the same position, now maskless and bloodied, screaming for help.

A low voice can be heard amid the fray, yelling, "Let him back, let him out!"

The officer eventually was able to free himself from the door.

According to a report published on CNN, Jon Farina, who noted the clash between police and rioters was constant, said the rioters "just kept rotating in and out. They would say 'We need fresh patriots.'"

Farina said police eventually repelled rioters from that location.

Wednesday's storming of the Capitol left five people dead, including Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick.

Federal agents in US have arrested two more Capitol Hill rioters whose images had gone viral. One of them carried the House speaker's lectern and another wore horns and a fur pelt.

Dozens of people have been charged in the aftermath, and the FBI has been asking the public to help identify participants given the proliferation of images of the riots on the internet.&nbsp;

The FBI and the Washington police department's homicide unit are jointly investigating the death of &nbsp;Sicknick, who was injured while defending the Capitol. He had just been sworn in with the US Capitol Police Department, fulfilling a lifelong dream.

Another horrifying video from Wednesday's riots at the US Capitol Hill has emerged, which shows a policeman crushed between the pro-Trump mob and officers defending the building.

Another horrifying video from Wednesday's riots at the US Capitol Hill has emerged, which shows a policeman crushed between the pro-Trump mob and officers defending the building. The said policeman was pinned between a door and the masses of people as per the video captured by investigative outlet Status Coup. HORRIFYING Footage Shot by @JonFarinaPhoto of Trump’s Army Storming Inside the Capitol and Attacking Cops. FULL VIDEO: https://t.co/DwqQd1HuBM pic.twitter.com/c8GHiWAEfp — Status Coup News (@StatusCoup) January 7, 2021 × It can also be seen that at least one individual attempted to rip away the officer's mask while he was wedged. What follows is even more ghastly. The officer reenters the frame of the video stuck in the same position, now maskless and bloodied, screaming for help. A low voice can be heard amid the fray, yelling, "Let him back, let him out!" The officer eventually was able to free himself from the door. According to a report published on CNN, Jon Farina, who noted the clash between police and rioters was constant, said the rioters "just kept rotating in and out. They would say 'We need fresh patriots.'" Farina said police eventually repelled rioters from that location. Wednesday's storming of the Capitol left five people dead, including Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick. Federal agents in US have arrested two more Capitol Hill rioters whose images had gone viral. One of them carried the House speaker's lectern and another wore horns and a fur pelt. Dozens of people have been charged in the aftermath, and the FBI has been asking the public to help identify participants given the proliferation of images of the riots on the internet. The FBI and the Washington police department's homicide unit are jointly investigating the death of Sicknick, who was injured while defending the Capitol. He had just been sworn in with the US Capitol Police Department, fulfilling a lifelong dream.

Video shows officer crushed against door by mob storming US Capitol

Federal agents in US have arrested two more Capitol Hill rioters whose images had gone viral. One of them carried the House speaker's lectern and another wore horns and a fur pelt.

Five people have died, including a police officer, following the storming of the Capitol on Wednesday.

Dozens of people have been charged in the aftermath, and the FBI has been asking the public to help identify participants given the proliferation of images of the riots on the internet.&nbsp;

Jacob Anthony Chansley, who featured prominently on social media wearing horns, a fur pelt, face paint and brandishing a spear adorned with the US flag, turned himself in to police, the Department of Justice said.

Chansley, also known as Jake Angeli, called the FBI's Washington office on Thursday and later told agents "he came as part of a group effort with other 'patriots' from Arizona, at the request of the President that all 'patriots' come to DC on January 6," the DOJ said in a release.

Before his arrest, NBC network reported, Chansley gloated about how the crowd infiltrated the Capitol, forcing lawmakers to flee.

Federal agents also arrested Adam Christian Johnson, whose photo as he smiled and waved as he carried off House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi's lectern also went viral.&nbsp;

Johnson, of Parrish, Florida, also streamed live video on Facebook of himself as he walked the halls of the Capitol, according to the Tampa Bay Times. The video has been removed from online platforms and all of Johnson's pages have been taken down.

One man who was arrested in connection with the events at the Capitol and threats to lawmakers told FBI agents he arrived in Washington on Thursday, a day late for the rally, after being delayed en route in Ohio, federal court documents showed.

Cleveland Meredith was found with a Tavor X95 assault rifle, a Glock pistol, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and was detained in connection with making threats to Pelosi after an FBI agent read January 7 text messages in which Meredith talked about "putting a bullet in her noggin on Live TV" and running her over with his truck.

At least a dozen other people were facing criminal charges in US District Court for the District of Columbia in connection to the riot, and at least another 40 people faced lesser charges in the District of Columbia Superior Court, a local venue. Many of them were arraigned on Thursday and released, with an order from the judge not to return to Washington unless for court appearances or meetings with their attorneys.

They included Richard Barnett, the Gravette, Arkansas, man who was photographed sitting at Pelosi's desk, his feet up on the furniture.

Also, the FBI and the Washington police department's homicide unit are jointly investigating the death of Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick, who was injured while defending the Capitol. Sicknick had just been sworn in with the US Capitol Police Department, fulfilling a lifelong dream.

(with inputs from agencies)

Federal agents in US have arrested two more Capitol Hill rioters whose images had gone viral. One of them carried the House speaker's lectern and another wore horns and a fur pelt.

Federal agents in US have arrested two more Capitol Hill rioters whose images had gone viral. One of them carried the House speaker's lectern and another wore horns and a fur pelt. Five people have died, including a police officer, following the storming of the Capitol on Wednesday. Dozens of people have been charged in the aftermath, and the FBI has been asking the public to help identify participants given the proliferation of images of the riots on the internet. Jacob Anthony Chansley, who featured prominently on social media wearing horns, a fur pelt, face paint and brandishing a spear adorned with the US flag, turned himself in to police, the Department of Justice said. Chansley, also known as Jake Angeli, called the FBI's Washington office on Thursday and later told agents "he came as part of a group effort with other 'patriots' from Arizona, at the request of the President that all 'patriots' come to DC on January 6," the DOJ said in a release. Before his arrest, NBC network reported, Chansley gloated about how the crowd infiltrated the Capitol, forcing lawmakers to flee. Federal agents also arrested Adam Christian Johnson, whose photo as he smiled and waved as he carried off House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi's lectern also went viral. Johnson, of Parrish, Florida, also streamed live video on Facebook of himself as he walked the halls of the Capitol, according to the Tampa Bay Times. The video has been removed from online platforms and all of Johnson's pages have been taken down. One man who was arrested in connection with the events at the Capitol and threats to lawmakers told FBI agents he arrived in Washington on Thursday, a day late for the rally, after being delayed en route in Ohio, federal court documents showed. Cleveland Meredith was found with a Tavor X95 assault rifle, a Glock pistol, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and was detained in connection with making threats to Pelosi after an FBI agent read January 7 text messages in which Meredith talked about "putting a bullet in her noggin on Live TV" and running her over with his truck. At least a dozen other people were facing criminal charges in US District Court for the District of Columbia in connection to the riot, and at least another 40 people faced lesser charges in the District of Columbia Superior Court, a local venue. Many of them were arraigned on Thursday and released, with an order from the judge not to return to Washington unless for court appearances or meetings with their attorneys. They included Richard Barnett, the Gravette, Arkansas, man who was photographed sitting at Pelosi's desk, his feet up on the furniture. Also, the FBI and the Washington police department's homicide unit are jointly investigating the death of Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick, who was injured while defending the Capitol. Sicknick had just been sworn in with the US Capitol Police Department, fulfilling a lifelong dream. (with inputs from agencies)

US officials to open murder probe in Capitol police officer's death

Hours after hundreds of President Donald Trump's supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol in a harrowing assault on American democracy, a shaken Congress on Thursday formally certified Democrat Joe Biden’s election victory.

US Congress confirms Biden's victory after harrowing Capitol Hill assault

U.S. President-elect Joe Biden said he had believed for a long time that President Donald Trump was not fit for office, but it was up to Congress to decide on a second impeachment of the Republican president after Wednesday's storming of the Capitol.

Biden says Trump is unfit, but impeachment is for Congress to decide

In 1814, the British set fire to the American democracy. Their troops burnt the Capitol, the White House, which was then called the presidential mansion and other government buildings.&nbsp;

More than 200 years later, US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump </a>entered the White House.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-donald-trump-attempts-a-coup-355232/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the four years that followed, he systematically shredded American democracy and tore the country apart.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-capitol-siege-sends-shockwaves-across-the-world-heres-a-timeline-of-how-it-unfolded-355224">As Capitol siege sends shockwaves across the world, here's a timeline of how it unfolded</a>

There are four pillars of every democracy, the legislature, the executive, the judiciary and the press.&nbsp;

Trump attacked all of them and then waged a war on the election.&nbsp;

He called the election process fraud and demanded that the counting be stopped.&nbsp;

Trump also tried to delegitimise the result.&nbsp;

There was no way Trump was going to leave office without insulting the system too.&nbsp;

What Washington witnessed on January 6 was shocking, but not surprising.&nbsp;

Trump filed lawsuits against the election results, sent late-night champagne to official election canvassers and hosted them at Trump hotels.&nbsp;

He terrorised election workers with threats and even tried bullying state governors.&nbsp;

When all his antics flopped, Trump incited thugs into attacking the US Capitol, attempting a coup.&nbsp;

In October 2020, there were articles being written about how Trump may orchestrate to overthrow an elected government and three months later, he did exactly that.&nbsp;

Trump violated his oath of office, committed sedition and attempted a coup d'état.&nbsp;

He made US Capitol looked like Egypt in 2018 when the then army chief Abdel Fattah al-Sisi forcefully removed elected president Mohamed Morsi from office.&nbsp;

The scenes were similar to the ones that were seen in Sudan in 2019 when President Omar al-Bashir was overthrown.&nbsp;

The US Capitol looked like 2017's Zimbabwe, 2012's Mali and 2010's Niger, all our nations that are not textbook examples of democracy. &nbsp;

The coup d'état was happening in a country that is the world's oldest and most celebrated democracy.&nbsp;

The siege in US Capitol's only parallel was Wilmington insurrection in 1898 when White supremacists overthrew a multicultural government in North Carolina.&nbsp;

A century separates the two events, but never ever such an event happened on the orders of a sitting president.&nbsp;

In 1814, British forces burnt the Capitol; in 1915, the Senate Reception Room was bombed; the Capitol Room was attacked by four Puerto Rican nationalists in 1954 and there were bombings in 1971 and 1983 too.&nbsp;

The airlines that crashed into the World Trade Centre in September 2011 also attempted US Capitol.&nbsp;

About two decades later, the US president himself had the building attacked.&nbsp;

America's democracy was badly hurt today and what face it will show to the countries it invaded.&nbsp;

The breakdown of law and order in the US has raised eyebrows globally and after the mayhem ended, the democracy has been insulted.&nbsp;

After the US became a laughing stock among its adversaries, Trump says he will ensure a peaceful transfer of power.&nbsp;

The words were coming out from the mouth of a man who insulted the democracy.&nbsp;

The man who does not deserve to sit in the White House even for the remaining two weeks.&nbsp;

In 1814, the British set fire to the American democracy. Their troops burnt the Capitol, the White House, which was then called the presidential mansion and other government buildings.

In 1814, the British set fire to the American democracy. Their troops burnt the Capitol, the White House, which was then called the presidential mansion and other government buildings. More than 200 years later, US President Donald Trump entered the White House. Watch | In the four years that followed, he systematically shredded American democracy and tore the country apart. Also read | As Capitol siege sends shockwaves across the world, here's a timeline of how it unfolded There are four pillars of every democracy, the legislature, the executive, the judiciary and the press. Trump attacked all of them and then waged a war on the election. He called the election process fraud and demanded that the counting be stopped. Trump also tried to delegitimise the result. There was no way Trump was going to leave office without insulting the system too. What Washington witnessed on January 6 was shocking, but not surprising. Trump filed lawsuits against the election results, sent late-night champagne to official election canvassers and hosted them at Trump hotels. He terrorised election workers with threats and even tried bullying state governors. When all his antics flopped, Trump incited thugs into attacking the US Capitol, attempting a coup. In October 2020, there were articles being written about how Trump may orchestrate to overthrow an elected government and three months later, he did exactly that. Trump violated his oath of office, committed sedition and attempted a coup d'état. He made US Capitol looked like Egypt in 2018 when the then army chief Abdel Fattah al-Sisi forcefully removed elected president Mohamed Morsi from office. The scenes were similar to the ones that were seen in Sudan in 2019 when President Omar al-Bashir was overthrown. The US Capitol looked like 2017's Zimbabwe, 2012's Mali and 2010's Niger, all our nations that are not textbook examples of democracy. The coup d'état was happening in a country that is the world's oldest and most celebrated democracy. The siege in US Capitol's only parallel was Wilmington insurrection in 1898 when White supremacists overthrew a multicultural government in North Carolina. A century separates the two events, but never ever such an event happened on the orders of a sitting president. In 1814, British forces burnt the Capitol; in 1915, the Senate Reception Room was bombed; the Capitol Room was attacked by four Puerto Rican nationalists in 1954 and there were bombings in 1971 and 1983 too. The airlines that crashed into the World Trade Centre in September 2011 also attempted US Capitol. About two decades later, the US president himself had the building attacked. America's democracy was badly hurt today and what face it will show to the countries it invaded. The breakdown of law and order in the US has raised eyebrows globally and after the mayhem ended, the democracy has been insulted. After the US became a laughing stock among its adversaries, Trump says he will ensure a peaceful transfer of power. The words were coming out from the mouth of a man who insulted the democracy. The man who does not deserve to sit in the White House even for the remaining two weeks.

After an assault on all democratic institutions, Donald Trump attempts coup d'etat

The seat of power in the United States came under siege. A violent mob, instigated by US President Donald Trump stormed the US Congress.

Gravitas: US lawmakers confirm Biden's win after mayhem on US Capitol

us-capitol

Us Capitol, News on Us Capitol, stories on Us Capitol, articles on Us Capitol, Us Capitol stories at Wion, Us Capitol news, Us Capitol latest news

us capitol