A former Virginia school board candidate has been arrested in connection with the attack on the U.S. Capitol on January 6th.
Richard Barnett, a self-described “super-patriot” and member of the far-right group the Proud Boys, was charged with civil disorder, illegal entry, and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds after he was identified as being one of the people who breached the building during the riot.
According to the Justice Department, Barnett was recorded wearing a hat bearing a “QAnon” logo and carrying a flag bearing an eagle as he entered the Capitol building, and was later found in the office of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
The complaint further alleges that Barnett was involved in a physical altercation with law enforcement officers. Barnett is also accused of threatening members of law enforcement, saying “You’re a loser. I can do whatever the (expletive) I want.”
Barnett had previously run a failed campaign for a seat on the Charlottesville, Virginia, school board. He had described himself as a law enforcement supporter and highlighted his belief in “restoring order” in Charlottesville.
Barnett is one of more than 170 people facing prosecution in connection with the attack on the Capitol. The Department of Justice has warned that more arrests are expected as the investigation into the attack continues.
If convicted, Barnett could face up to 20 years in prison. His case is currently being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
