Federal prosecutors on Friday accused a U.S. Capitol Police officer of obstructing a probe into the Jan. 6 attack on the government building by urging a participant to destroy Facebook posts showing him inside, warning that he could be prosecuted.
In a six-page indictment, prosecutors said that Michael Riley, a Capitol Police officer for more than 25 years, had become a Facebook friend with the suspect identified as "Person 1" on Jan. 1 and then direct messaged the individual on Jan. 7.
Hundreds of supporters of former Republican President Donald Trump stormed the Capitol building on Jan. 6 in a failed attempt to overturn his election defeat. Four people died in the violence, more than 100 police officers were injured and four officers in the crowd that day later died of suicide. Each of the two obstruction charges Riley faces carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, though judges often impose sentences below the maximum.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Capitol Police welcome peer support dog LilaThe US Capitol Police has unleashed a special new member to its patrol -- a peer support dog named Lila.
Read more »
Capitol Police officer charged with helping hide a Jan. 6 rioter’s participationBREAKING: U.S. Capitol Police officer charged with trying to protect a person who was later accused of illegally entering the Capitol during the Jan. 6 riot.
Read more »
Capitol Police using support dogs in wake of Jan. 6 traumaIn the nine months since the Jan. 6 attack, even as their physical injuries heal, some Capitol Police officers still do battle with unseen wounds and memories.
Read more »
US Capitol Police officer indicted on obstruction of justice charges in connection with January 6A US Capitol Police officer was indicted on obstruction charges in connection to the January 6 insurrection at the US Capitol.
Read more »
Capitol Police Officer Charged With Helping a Guy in His Facebook Fishing Groups Hide Insurrection EvidenceA Capitol Police officer was arrested on Friday for helping someone in his Facebook fishing groups hide evidence that they participated in the insurrection
Read more »