Jan. 6 Capitol riot participants file lawsuit accusing police of excessive force
Scripps News • • nation
Key Points:
- Dozens of Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot participants have filed a class-action lawsuit against the federal government, alleging excessive force by U.S. Capitol Police and Metropolitan Police Department officers.
- The lawsuit claims officers "indiscriminately" used chemical munitions, pepper spray, and other projectiles on a largely peaceful crowd without issuing required dispersal warnings.
- Plaintiffs report injuries including chemical burns, concussions, and emotional distress, accusing the government of negligence, assault, and inadequate supervision and crowd control.
- The suit seeks a court declaration that the force used was unlawful, along with compensatory damages and legal costs.
- The Justice Department has been contacted for comment; meanwhile, President Trump previously pardoned many individuals charged or convicted in connection with the attack.
