The United States Capitol Police has suspended six police officers and is investigating a total of almost 30 others in connection with their actions in response to the January 6 deadly riot on Capitol Hill.
Washington, DC, Fox affiliate, WTTG, reported investigations for the first time on Thursday, with the Capitol Police Office of Professional Responsibility writing in a statement, “Acting Chief Yogananda Pittman has determined that any member of her department whose behavior does not comply with the Department’s Rules of Conduct will face appropriate discipline. “
CNN also reported on the investigation of the 35 officers, adding that others may occur as investigators examine social media posts and allegations that officers may be involved in the riot.
The Hill contacted the Capitol Police for additional information.
The suspensions and investigations come amid increased scrutiny over the Capitol Police’s response to the mob attack, in which several people died in the chaos, including Capitol police officer Brian Sicknick. Two additional police officers who responded to the riots have since died of suicide.
Capitol Police last month, in the days following the siege, confirmed he was investigating the actions of some of its directors, with Pittman saying in a statement at the time that the department was “Actively reviewing videos and other open source material from some USCP officers and employees who appear to be in violation of the Department’s policies and regulations.”
“Our Office of Professional Responsibility will investigate these behaviors for disciplinary action, up to and including termination,” added Pittman. “Several USCP officers have already been suspended pending the outcome of their investigations.”
Pittman took over as acting head of the department after the former Capitol Police Chief Steven Sund announced that he would resign amid pressure from the legislator the day after the Capitol violation.
Rep. Tim Ryan
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Capitol Police members last week issued an early vote of censure on its top leaders during the January 6 riot, including Pittman, two deputy chiefs, three deputy chiefs and a captain in the division that commands the Capitol.