At least 25 troops under investigation for terrorism in connection with Capitol riot
Tom Vanden Brook | USA TODAY
WASHINGTON – At least 25 troops are under investigation for terrorism related to Wednesday's siege at the Capitol, according to a Defense official and a member of Congress.
Rep. Jason Crow , a Democrat of Colorado and a former Army Ranger, said he spoke with Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy on Sunday and was told that "at least 25 domestic terrorism cases have been opened as a result of the assault on the Capitol."
The troops are suspected of taking part in the insurrection that shut down Congress as it formalized President-elect Joe Biden's Electoral College victory, said a Defense official, who was not authorized to comment on the law enforcement investigation. Five people died, including a Capitol Hill police officer , after the pro-Trump mob overwhelmed security lines.
Members of the military are sworn to protect the Constitution. It is not clear if they would face military courts martial or prosecution in civilian court.
“We are engaged in identifying all of those who took part in breaching the Capitol, regardless of their affiliation,” Justice spokesman Marc Raimondi said Sunday.
The Pentagon also has been asked to review all members who will be a part of the security detail for next week's inauguration ceremony to ensure the are "not sympathetic to domestic terrorists," Crow said.
President Donald Trump encouraged thousands of his followers to march on the Capitol after he addressed them outside the White House on Wednesday.
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Contributing: Kevin Johnson
Via PakapNews