Colorado Man Facing Several Charges After Capitol Riot
A Colorado man is facing six serious charges following his participation in the riot that occurred at the Capitol last Wednesday, January 13th.
The man, 24-year-old Robert Gieswein of Woodland Park was spotted in photos and video taken at the riot and is consequently facing charges of assault on a federal officer, destruction of government property, obstruction of an official proceeding, entering a restricted building, disorderly conduct, and aiding and abetting, according to his official FBI warrant.
The videos show Gieswein spraying an officer with an unknown substance, encouraging other rioters to break a window, then entering the Capitol building through the window after it was broken.
Gieswein is associated with at least two militia groups. One of the groups, The Three Percenters has been called a "radical militia group" by the FBI and operates nationwide. The other group, known as the Woodland Wild Dogs appears to be a brainchild of Gieswein where he and other radical militants train here in Colorado.
According to The Denver Post, Gieswein spoke to the press the day prior to the riot telling her that our country needs to be rid of "corrupt politicians," some of which he referred to by name and all are members of the Democratic Party. It's also said that in the interview Gieswein made some anti-semitic remarks.
Because of his affiliations with the radical groups, Gieswein was easily identified in the video footage as he was wearing patches from both groups.
As of roughly 1:30 p.m. sources say that it's unclear whether or not Gieswein has been arrested.
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