By Trend News Line 2024-04-03 13:17:39.
Arrest of Proud Boys Member for Capitol Assault
A Texas man and alleged member of the Proud Boys organization, Steve Saxiones, has been arrested on felony and misdemeanor charges for his involvement in the breach of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. The incident disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.
Charges Against Steve Saxiones
Saxiones, aged 46 and hailing from Cedar Hill, Texas, is facing several charges, including felony offenses of obstruction of law enforcement during civil disorder and assault on a federal officer. Additionally, he is charged with several misdemeanors, such as knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority and disorderly conduct in a Capitol building or grounds.
Arrest and Court Documents
The FBI arrested Saxiones in Cedar Hill, and he will make his initial appearance in the Northern District of Texas. According to court documents, Saxiones was involved in pushing against law enforcement officers on the Lower West Plaza of Capitol grounds during the riot. He allegedly attempted to physically remove bike rack barricades and assaulted a federal officer.
Preceding Events and Participation in Proud Boys Group
Leading up to the events of January 6, 2021, Saxiones participated in an instant messaging group discussion with other members of the Proud Boys organization and leadership named the Ministry of Self Defense (MOSD). In these conversations, they discussed travel arrangements to Washington, D.C., logistical issues, and the potential for violence at the Capitol. Saxiones also discussed carrying body armor and communications equipment, as well as concealing his appearance.
Prosecution and Investigation
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting Saxiones’ case, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas. The FBI’s Dallas and Washington Field Offices are investigating the case, with support from the U.S. Capitol police and the Metropolitan Police Department.
Legal Disclaimer and Ongoing Investigation
It is essential to note that a complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Since the events of January 6, 2021, over 1,358 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, with more than 486 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation into the Capitol breach remains ongoing.
If you have any information related to this case, you can contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov..
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