But the men are not accused of planning the attack before arriving in Washington. They were accused of conspiring to interfere with police officers who defend the Capitol, participating in civil unrest, illegally entering restricted areas and other federal crimes.
Both men were first hit two weeks ago. Prosecutors claimed that they removed the metal barricades from the Capitol and that Pezzola broke a window using a police riot shield. Images of the attack show pro-Trump protesters entering the Capitol from the broken window.
Of the approximately 175 known defendants facing riot-related charges, at least eight are affiliated with the Proud Boys, according to a CNN analysis of court documents. Several of the prosecutors and FBI agents who deal with the Proud Boys’ cases are experts in investigating terrorist groups, violent gangs and other national security issues, according to court documents.
The Justice Department’s counterterrorism section, which is part of the national security division, is helping to lead the case against Pezzola and Pepe, according to a press release released on Friday.
In response to the accusation, Pezzola’s lawyer, Michael Scibetta, told CNN that “contact was denied” with his arrested client, which undermined his ability to mount a “meaningful legal defense”.
A lawyer representing Pepe did not immediately respond to emails seeking comment.