DC police arrest 13 people amid the Capitol riot

Washington D.C.’s Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) arrested 13 people on Wednesday as pro-President Trump rioters overtook the Capitol building. 

Newly sworn-in MPD Chief Robert Contee said during a Wednesday evening press conference that police arrested “just above” 13 people and recovered “approximately” five weapons.

“I should add a very important note here that none of the arrests that occurred were D.C. residents,” Contee said. “All of the individuals who were arrested were from out of area.” 

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— Mayor Muriel Bowser (@MayorBowser) January 6, 2021

Contee, who was sworn in as chief days ago, said several MPD officers were injured and being treated but still engaged in trying to retake the Capitol.

The police chief said “a large crowd” moved toward the Capitol after President Trump spoke to demonstrators, and as they approached, “there was a noticeable change in their demeanor.”

“They breached the fencing along the U.S. Capitol ground and confronted police lines surrounding the building,” Contee said.

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) had announced a 6 p.m. curfew for the city, and during the press conference, Contee emphasized that “police will be required to take action” against those who break curfew.

MPD had arrested at least 10 people associated with the pro-Trump protests through early morning Wednesday.

The rioters stormed the Capitol Wednesday afternoon, forcing the Senate and the House to pause debates on the Electoral College and lawmakers to flee to secure locations.