The Justice Department said Robert Sanford, 55, was arrested Thursday morning in Pennsylvania. Court documents state that Sanford was seen in videotaped carrying a “red body that appears to be a fire extinguisher” while climbing over a short wall on the lower west porch of the Capitol building. He allegedly threw the extinguisher at the police officers and hit one of them, who was wearing a helmet, before falling back on and wounding two others.
Officer William Young said he “felt a heavy blow on the back of his helmet,” according to court documents, and saw a fire extinguisher on the ground but did not see who had hit him. Young was evaluated in hospital and released to return to service.
The records said Sanford was identified on Tuesday by the Pennsylvania branch of the FBI and charged on Wednesday in U.S. District Court.
He faces four charges: Intentionally entering or remaining in any prohibited building or land without legal authority; Disruptive or disruptive behavior on the Capitol; Civil unrest, according to the documents, assault, resistance, or obstruction of some officers while carrying out official duties.
It was not immediately clear if he had a lawyer.
To date, more than 30 people have been arrested on federal charges, with some accused of bringing weapons to Capitol Hill, and others being filmed looting the building. Many of them are accused of illegal entry or violent entry.
Natalie Sinclair is a contributor at Vaughantoday.ca, covering a wide range of topics including local news, politics, business, technology, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle. She focuses on delivering clear, accurate reporting and useful information that helps readers stay informed about current events and issues that matter to their communities. Her work highlights timely developments, relevant stories, and practical insights in a professional and reader-friendly manner.