WASHINGTON, D.C. – Edward Richmond Jr., a 40-year-old U.S. Army veteran and supporter of Donald Trump, was arrested and charged with multiple felonies and misdemeanors for his alleged role in the violent assault on police officers during the January 6 Capitol riot. Richmond, originally from Louisiana, is said to have traveled from Ohio to Washington, D.C., as part of a group planning to attend pro-Trump rallies.
Richmond reportedly arrived at the Capitol prepared for violence, wearing a black helmet, goggles, shoulder pads, an orange 2-way radio, and a patch of the Louisiana state flag. As Congress was in session to certify the 2020 presidential election results, a mob of Trump supporters breached the Capitol, leading to lawmakers and staff fleeing or sheltering in place for hours.
Security footage places Richmond at the Lower West Terrace Tunnel, a site of particularly violent clashes. Body camera footage allegedly shows him striking law enforcement officers multiple times with a baton. A confidential witness, described as having a close relationship with Richmond, identified him in pictures and commented on his appearance, likening it to someone going to war.
This arrest adds to Richmond’s history of legal issues, highlighting the ongoing investigations and legal proceedings stemming from the January 6 events.