Three days before the deadly Capitol riot, Capitol Police sent an internal intelligence report warning of possible violence, The Washington Post reports.
“Due to the tense political environment after the 2020 election, the threat of disruptive actions or violence cannot be ruled out,” the 12-page report reads.
Rather than targeting counter-protests by the rioters, as in previous protests during the Washington presidential election, this time around, the Capitol would likely be targeted, the report warned.
“Supporters of the current president see January 6, 2021 as the last chance to reverse the results of the presidential election,” said some.
“This feeling of despair and disappointment can lead to a greater incentive to become violent,” it continues.
The report, which does not appear to have been widely shared with other law enforcement agencies, noted that prominent leaders on the right would be speaking at the ‘Stop the Steal’ meeting, which Capitol Police predicted would be one of those bigger events. that day, according to the Post.
“This, combined with Stop the Steal’s tendency to attract white supremacists, militiamen and others who actively promote violence, can lead to significantly dangerous situations for both the police and the general public,” the report said.
Former Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund, who resigned after the violent riot, expressed concern about inadequate security before January 6.
“We looked at the intelligence,” he reportedly told the Post. ‘We knew we would have large crowds, the possibility of violent arguments. I had nothing to indicate that a large crowd would conquer the Capitol. ”
Capitol Police have also reportedly been warned of the potential of targeted violence against the Capitol by several lawmakers, including representatives. Frederica Wilson
Frederica Patricia Wilson Lawmakers warned police of a possible attack ahead of the siege McMorris Rodgers floats leave speaker chairman due to Democrat’s personal mood following COVID diagnosis Five House Democrats who could join Biden’s cabinet (D-Fla.) And Maxine Waters
Maxine Moore Waters Lawmakers warned police of possible attack prior to the siege (D-Calif.).
The uprising resulted in the deaths of five people, including Capitol Police officer Brian Sicknick.
While the threat of violence continues as the inauguration approaches, the Capitol Police have joined other agencies, including the Secret Service and the US Park Police, to request an extension of the National Guard’s presence in DC.
Capitol Police did not immediately respond to The Hill’s request for comment.