WASHINGTON, DC—Two New York men, Charles E. Schimmel, 53, and Logan Schimmel, 23, both from Prattsburgh, were arrested today on charges related to their alleged involvement in the January 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. The charges, filed in the District of Columbia, include a felony for obstructing law enforcement during a civil disorder and several misdemeanors.
The FBI conducted the arrests on August 14, 2024, and the Schimmels made their initial court appearance in the Western District of New York.
They are accused of participating actively in the events of January 6, starting with the “Stop the Steal” rally and culminating in their entry into the Capitol.
Court documents detail the Schimmels’ alleged actions, describing how they pushed against police lines and maneuvered through the crowd to enter the Capitol building.
Once inside, they reportedly visited several significant locations including the Rotunda and the Speaker of the House office suite, before exiting approximately an hour later.
Following their departure from the building, the Schimmels allegedly continued to confront police officers on Capitol grounds, resisting efforts to clear the area. They were reportedly among the last rioters to be moved from the scene.
The case continues to develop as authorities proceed with legal actions against individuals involved in the Capitol breach.