Prior to the Capitol riot last week, FBI warned the capitol. NBC News reported that before the riot, the FBI and NYPD told the capitol about the likelihood of violence.
On Friday, D’Antuono of the FBI’s Washington field office told NBC News they had no information on any planned violent acts. Apparently the task force only expected the use of the 1st Amendment. The 1st amendment prevents the law from limiting protesting and free speech. However, many law enforcement officials dispute this, stating the NYPD sent info to offices, including Capitol Police. The reports warn them about the extremist rhetoric and threats on social media in connection with the rally.
Before the event, President Trump spoke at a rally held relating to the counting of votes. Trump said supporters should “walk down to the Capitol.” Furthermore, he tells his supports to “cheer on our brave senators and congressmen and women.” He continues by saying “we are probably not going to be cheering so much for some of them because you will never take back our country with weakness.” By Trump saying this, officials believe he got more people to go to the Capitol.
Capitol Police were not ready for the mob that showed up that day. However, Capitol Police had refused assistance from the National Guard three days before. It seems as though the violent protest on Capitol hill could’ve been avoided. Moreover, it’s possible had police listened to the tips, pro-Tump protesters could’ve been met the same front as BLM protesters.
