Andrew Williams, a paramedic firefighter for the Sanford Fire Department, appeared in federal court on Tuesday and was released on $ 25,000 bail, according to court documents.
The Sanford Fire Department launched an investigation into Williams’ involvement after the photo circulated online. Fire chief Craig Radzak confirmed it was Williams in the photo and said Williams had worked in the department as a paramedic firefighter since October 2016.
As a condition of bail, Williams must attend all court proceedings. In addition, he is not allowed to carry firearms, ammunition or dangerous weapons, and must hand over his passport by Friday.
Florida federal court records show that Williams’ case is being transferred to the District of Columbia.
He is allowed to travel to DC as needed to appear in court, subject to conditions.
“The president and the Capitol police have encouraged negligible behavior,” said Citro, speaking out of court. “Mr. Williams did not participate in anything. In fact, you will notice in the complaint that there are no claims that Mr. Williams did any of these things.”
The Sanford Fire Department has suspended its investigation pending completion of the federal investigation, according to its statement.
“We keep the men and women in this department to the highest standards,” said Chief Radzak in the note. “It saddens me to know that an individual’s actions have tarnished the hard work and dedication that the rest of the department does on a daily basis.”