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But the men are not accused of planning the attack before coming to Washington. They were charged with conspiracy to interfere with police officers defending the Capitol, participating in civil unrest, illegally entering restricted land and other federal crimes.
The two men were first charged two weeks ago. Prosecutors alleged that they removed metal barricades at the Capitol and that Pezzola smashed a window using a police officer’s riot shield. Footage of the attack shows pro-Trump rioters entering the Capitol through the shattered window.
Of the approximately 175 known defendants facing riot-related charges, at least eight are affiliated with the Proud Boys, according to a CNN analysis of court documents. Several of the prosecutors and FBI agents handling these Proud Boys cases are experts in investigating terrorist groups, violent gangs and other national security matters, according to court documents.
The anti-terrorism section of the Justice Department, which is part of the National Security Division, is helping bring the case against Pezzola and Pepe, according to a press release on Friday.
In response to the indictment, Pezzola’s attorney, Michael Scibetta, told CNN he was “denied all contact” with his jailed client, compromising his ability to mount a “defense. significant legal ”.
A lawyer representing Pepe did not immediately respond to emails seeking comment.
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