January 6 protesters seek millions in court for ‘physical and emotional injuries’

Key Points:

• Several individuals present at the US Capitol during the January 6, 2021 insurrection have filed a class action lawsuit against the US Capitol Police and DC police, seeking millions in damages for alleged physical and emotional injuries caused by law enforcement actions that day.
• The lawsuit claims that the police response, including the use of tear gas, chemical irritants, and weapons to push back rioters, was excessive and unjustified, resulting in injuries such as chemical burns, concussive trauma, and emotional distress.
• The named plaintiffs, along with 43 others, have filed administrative claims for compensation which remain unresolved, and they are now pursuing a class certification to represent all individuals injured by law enforcement during the event, seeking a jury trial for damages.
• The total amount sought by the 46 plaintiffs currently stands at over $18 million, while at least one plaintiff, Alan E. Fischer, faces federal charges related to violent actions during the riot, including throwing objects at officers.
• The US Capitol Police have not yet commented on the lawsuit, and the DC Metropolitan Police Department declined to comment.