A Connecticut man has been charged with several counts related to the violent mob attack on the US Capitol on January 6, including an assault on a Metropolitan Police officer seen in a dramatic video being crushed into a door frame with a riot shield, the Department of Justice reports.
Police released images of a suspect in the attack last week, as CrimeOnline previously reported. According to an affidavit, someone who had known Patrick Edward McCaughey III “since they were children” identified the suspect and provided law enforcement with information about him and copies of photos and a video he shared with friends showing his participation in the pro-Trump Capitol riot.
Officer Daniel Hodges, the officer seen crying out in pain with a bloody mouth in the video, was “doing well” after the incident, police said.
Investigators used body camera footage from other officers, surveillance footage, and video uploaded to YouTube to further confirm McCaughey’s identity, matching the other videos to the selfies and videos the suspect himself posted. Investigators also used the videos to set up a detailed timeline of McCaughey’s activities on that afternoon.
McCaughey is seen in some footage striking other officers — including one who was attempting to help Hodges — with the riot shield he carried.
In addition to assault, McCaughey is charged with civil disorder, entering restricted building or grounds, and violent entry or disorderly conduct.
“Patrick McCaughey’s actions were violent, barbaric, and completely out of control,” Steven M. D’Antuono, assistant director in charge of the FBI Washington Field Office, said. “The FBI will relentlessly pursue individuals who took part in this activity and we will continue our unwavering commitment to ensure all those responsible for assaults on law enforcement officers are brought to justice.”
Law enforcement received several anonymous tips about McCaughey as well, investigators said, although those tips misspelled his name.
McCaughey was arrested Tuesday night in White Plains, New York, NBC News said.
Watch the video of the attack on Hodges here:
Five people, including a Capitol police officer, were killed in the deadly insurrection, which was launched by supporters of former President Donald Trump who believed his baseless contention that the election was stolen from him.
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[Featured image: Patrick Edward McCaughey III and (inset) Daniel Hodges/Metropolitan Police Department]
