A South Florida man has been convicted of felony and misdemeanor charges related to his conduct during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol according to federal authorities.
A federal jury found Richard Cook, 37, of Boca Raton, guilty of civil disorder, a felony, and five misdemeanor offenses, including entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds, impeding passage through the Capitol grounds or buildings, and act of physical violence in the Capitol grounds or buildings.
The FBI arrested Cook on March 9, 2023, in Florida.
According to a U.S. Department of Justice news release, Cook “was among rioters who repeatedly engaged in violence against law enforcement officers guarding the Capitol” and participated in a confrontation with police in the building’s Lower West Terrace and tunnel areas.
“He entered the tunnel on the Lower West Terrace at approximately 3:12 p.m., making his way into the mob of rioters who were coordinating pushes against police officers while yelling ‘HEAVE HO!’ and ‘PUSH!’” the release states. “Cook entered the tunnel two separate times to assist in the collective pushes against police officers as the rioters tried to gain access to the Capitol building.”
Prosecutors said while Cook joined in the collective pushes, “one police officer screamed in pain as the weight of the rioters’ pushes pinned him between a shield and a door.”
They said Cook was identified as photograph #185 in a montage of images of alleged rioters sought by the FBI.
Cook joins nearly 1,400 people arrested in connection with the attack.
U.S. District Judge Reggie B. Walton will sentence Cook on Aug. 28, 2024.
Recovering from a personal injury is not just about physical healing—it’s also about obtaining the financial resources and closure you need to move forward with your life. At Ovadia Law Group, we’re committed to helping you achieve both. Our compassionate attorneys will listen to your story, answer your questions, and provide you with honest and straightforward legal advice. We’ll handle all aspects of your case with professionalism and integrity, working tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family. With our personalized approach and unwavering dedication to client satisfaction, you can trust us to be your advocate every step of the way. Don’t let someone else’s negligence derail your life—call us today at 1-800-674-9396 for a free consultation and let us help you take control of your future.
Source: Local10
