A Maryland resident, Thomas Joseph Kelly Jr., 36, has been arrested for his role in the January 6 Capitol riots, facing multiple charges including assaulting police officers with a deadly weapon. The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced that Kelly used a metal-edged Donald Trump campaign sign as a battering ram during the disturbances, resulting in severe injuries to a police officer.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Kelly participated actively in the riot, spending three hours at the Capitol as part of a larger group attempting to obstruct the certification of the Electoral College vote. Court documents detail Kelly’s aggressive actions: he bypassed police barriers, taunted police officers with derogatory remarks, and escalated to physical violence against law enforcement.
In a significant clash on the Lower West Plaza, Kelly, described as wearing snow goggles and standing over six feet tall, reportedly led the charge against police lines. He used the sign to jab and thrust at officers, ultimately striking one in the face, breaking his helmet, and knocking him unconscious.
The injured officer suffered severe aftereffects, including vision loss and trouble maintaining consciousness, which persisted throughout the day of the attack. Kelly’s alleged actions contributed to the broader violence of the day, which has led to widespread legal repercussions for many participants.
Kelly now faces serious legal consequences for his actions, including charges of civil disorder and engaging in physical violence in a restricted building. The incident underscores the continuing legal and societal fallout from the January 6 events, highlighting the ongoing investigations and accountability measures being enforced.